UPSC | Prelims GS | 2026

Optogenetics, highlighted in the report, combines which two approaches to control neural activity?

  1. Genetic targeting of light-sensitive proteins and optical stimulation of nerve cells
  2. Electrical stimulation of all neurons and chemical suppression of genes
  3. Magnetic imaging of the skull and surgical removal of synapses
  4. Ultrasound targeting of blood vessels and thermal ablation

Answer

Correct Answer

Genetic targeting of light-sensitive proteins and optical stimulation of nerve cells

Explanation

A is correct: viral vectors deliver opsin genes to selected cells and light pulses then activate or inhibit them. B confuses optogenetics with broad electrical stimulation and gene suppression. C and D describe unrelated imaging or therapeutic techniques, not the gene-plus-light mechanism.

Topics: channelrhodopsin and neural circuits, neuroscience, optogenetics, science and technology