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 stimulating a tissue structure comprising light sensitive protein, comprising:
 a. an implantable light conductor configured to be permanently coupled between a first subcutaneous location immediately adjacent the tissue structure and a second location selected such that extracorporeal photons directed toward the second location will be transmitted, at least in part, through the implantable light applicator to the targeted tissue structure; and   b. an extracorporeal light source configured to controllably direct photons into the implantable light conductor at the second location in an amount sufficient to cause a change in the light sensitive protein of the tissue structure based at least in part upon a portion of the directed photons reaching the first subcutaneous location.