Application of Optogenetics Combined with Fiber Photometry Recording in the Regulation of Neural Circuits-visceral Functions by Electroacupuncture

This protocol describes a technique for optogenetic manipulation of specific types of neurons and real-time recording of the effects of electroacupuncture at Zusanli (ST36) on nuclear calcium signals and gastric motility in mice under anesthesia in vivo. The exploration of the central mechanisms underlying the efficacy of acupuncture has been limited by technological constraints. However, the advancement of optogenetic and optical imaging technology has propelled the development of neuroscience. Fiber photometry recording, initially leveraging genetically encoded calcium indicators to visualize changes in calcium dynamics indicative of neuronal activity, stands out as a key technology for characterizing brain-behavior correlations in vivo. The application of optogenetics enables the genetic encoding of neurons, enabling their activation or inhibition in response to light stimulation. This capability facilitates the establishment of causal links between neural circuitry function and behavioral outcomes. Simultaneous fiber photometry, calcium recording, and optogenetic stimulation provide a method for real-time recording and manipulation of neuronal activity, serving as an effective approach to investigate the central mechanisms of acupuncture. Nonetheless, there remains a scarcity of studies documenting the concurrent utilization of fiber photometry calcium recording, optogenetics, and visceral function monitoring in acupuncture research. The results of this experiment show that EA-ST36 might regulate gastric motility related to PBN^Glu-NTS^Glu-DMV^ChAT circuit. Optogenetic stimulation of this circuit produces the same effect. After the superposition of the two, the changes in calcium signal and gastric motility reach their maximum. This study established a novel approach for the simultaneous integration of optogenetic, intracerebral calcium signal recording, and gastric motility monitoring, offering a novel paradigm for real-time monitoring of the relationship between somatic stimulation and neural circuit-visceral function interactions.