Small, light, wireless prototype devices developed by Kendall Research could make optogenetics research much more practical.

Optogenetics relies on genetically altering certain cells to make them responsive to light, and then selectively stimulating them with a laser to either turn the cells on or off.

Instead of an expensive, bulky laser light source, the researchers use LEDs and laser diodes incorporated into a small head-borne device that plugs into an implant in the animal’s brain, powered wirelessly by supercapacitors stationed below the animal’s cage or testing area.

The wireless capabilities allow researchers to control the optogenetics equipment remotely, or even schedule experiments in advance.