Characterisation of Channelrhodopsin-2 in a neuronal culture model

Neurones are highly electrically active cells. A long sought-after goal of neuroscience has to be able to control neuronal activity in a precise fashion, both in space and time. Recently, the cloning of novel light-gated ion channels from algae has enabled this experimental possibility. In particular, Channelrhopdopsin-2 (ChR2), a non-specific cation channel that is opened upon illumination with blue light, has revolutionized the field. However not much is known about the specific kinetics, and voltage and temperature dependence of ChR2. This information is critical for understanding how the channel will function when used to probe neuronal connectivity and drive behaviour when used in vivo. In this thesis I have examined these questions, using ChR2 in primary neuronal cultures as a model system to carefully measure channel activity following light stimulation