| abstract |
The present invention relates to methods of optically screening compounds for their effects on neuronal cells expressing optogenetic proteins that initiate and report electrical activity in the cells. These high throughput assays provide robust electrophysiological measurements on cells without the need for patch clamp methods. Since the described optogenetic constructs and cells derived from pluripotent stem cells (PSC) serve to provide the accuracy, time resolution, and potential control required to monitor the effects of the compounds, the present invention This assay is suitable for primary screening and drug discovery. The methods of the invention can be applied in research or efforts on autism, epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, tuberous sclerosis, and ion channel modulators. |