9 ms·
> The researchers used genetic engineering to express a special heat-sensitive ion channel in neurons that cause flies to partially spread their wings, a common
by haswell 4y ago
> The researchers used genetic engineering to express a special heat-sensitive ion channel in neurons that cause flies to partially spread their wings, a common mating gesture. The researchers then injected magnetic nanoparticles that could be heated with an applied magnetic field.
The title somewhat obscures the part where the flies are genetically modified, and require injected nano particles to function as described.
Still fascinating.
- feet 4y agoGenetic modification is common in research like this, so are injections of various nanoparticles and viruses. The field of optogenetics is based around similar methods
- WebbWeaver 4y agoThere are genes that can create sub cellular nanoparticles as well. i guess you could genetically edit germline gene modifications or even genetic modification post viable organism to create "in situ" nanoparticles https://www.nature.com/articles/am201590 https://www.nature.com/articles/am201590 Optogenetics can be more invasive than what we see with the fruit flies as they usually involve running fiberoptics directly to the desired nerves. Also potentially more useful in growing tissues in petri dishes. new muscle tissue for heart/ethical meat you name it. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5437765/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5437765/ What we are seeing is sub second rudimentary brainwave manipulation. Literally a rudimentary remote controlled fly.