UPSC | Prelims GS | 2026

With reference to optogenetics, consider the following statements: 1. It uses light-sensitive proteins to control selected neurons. 2. Channelrhodopsin-2 permits positively charged ions to flow into a cell when exposed to light. 3. The technique studies only peripheral nerves and has no application to brain circuits. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 1 and 3 only
  4. 1, 2 and 3

Answer

Correct Answer

1 and 2 only

Explanation

Statements 1 and 2 are correct because optogenetics uses light-sensitive ion channels to control neurons, and channelrhodopsin-2 allows positively charged ions into cells. Statement 3 is wrong because the technique has been used in live mice to study brain networks. It is relevant to circuits governing pain, attention, sleep, memory and behaviour.

Topics: channelrhodopsin-2, neuroscience, optogenetics, science and technology