System and method for optogenetic therapy

Abstract

Configurations are described for utilizing light-activated proteins within cell membranes and subcellular regions to assist with medical treatment paradigms, such as hypertension treatment via anatomically specific and temporally precise modulation of renal plexus activity. The invention provides for proteins, nucleic acids, vectors and methods for genetically targeted expression of light-sensitive proteins to specific cells or defined cell populations. In particular the invention provides systems, devices, and methods for millisecond-timescale temporal control of certain cell activities using moderate light intensities, such as the generation or inhibition of electrical spikes in nerve cells and other excitable cells.

1 . A system for creating a directed action potential in a targeted nerve comprising light sensitive protein and coupled to a spinal cord of a patient, comprising:
 a. an implantable optical applicator configured to engage the targeted nerve and to deliver light to the targeted nerve, the implantable optical applicator operatively coupled to a light source configured to deliver photons to the implantable optical applicator which may be emitted by the implantable optical applicator into the targeted nerve to cause a membrane polarization change in the targeted nerve;   b. an implantable electrical stimulation applicator configured to engage the targeted nerve, the implantable electrical stimulation applicator operatively coupled to a power source configured to deliver electrons to the implantable electrical stimulation applicator which may be emitted by the implantable electrical stimulation applicator into the targeted nerve to cause a membrane polarization change in the targeted nerve; and   c. a controller operatively coupled to the light source and the power source and configured to cause both current to flow to the implantable electrical stimulation applicator and photons to be directed to the implantable optical applicator, such that an action potential is created which propagates in a first desired direction along the nerve, and which does not substantially propagate in a reverse direction along the nerve.