Neurophotonics & Circuit Mapping

The BRAIN initiative has highlighted the importance of developing new imaging tools for understanding the function of neural circuits. Boston University has a new Center for Neurophotonics program led by Prof. David Boas and affiliated with the Photonics Center led by Prof. Tom Bifano. Multiple investigators at Boston University use cutting-edge techniques for imaging activity in neural circuits, including two-photon and single-photon imaging techniques in behaving rodents. Investigators also use optogenetic techniques for functional activation or inactivation of identified cell populations. Neurophotonics researchers are also developing new technologies including adaptive optics and 3-photon imaging.