Light on a nanoscale: channelling energy through space and time to control neuronal activity

能量转移和共振的量子力学效应将被用来产生超亮的纳米级光源。研究将揭示能量收集、传输和发射中心之间错综复杂的相互作用，这些中心的设计使能量流动具有定向性。这种集中的强烈能量将从红外光中产生大量可见光子。能够通过使用光遗传学方法进行光学刺激的基因工程细胞将被我们的纳米级光照射，从而引起细胞活性的调节。这种新的能力将能够远程控制神经系统内特定回路中的神经元活动，而不受手术插入光纤的限制。

Quantum-mechanical effects of energy transfer and resonance will be harnessed to yield ultrabright nanoscale light sources. Research will unveil the intricate interplay between energy harvesting, transferring and emitting centres designed so that the flow of energy exhibits a directed character. This focussed intense energy will produce abundant visible photons from infrared light. Genetically engineered cells able to be stimulated optically by using an optogenetics method will be illuminated by our nanoscale light causing modulation of cell activity. This new capability will enable remote control of neuronal activity in specific circuits within the nervous system without the limitation of surgically inserted optical fibres.