Bruchas Lab
Principal Investigator: Michael R. Bruchas
Institution: University of Washington (Seattle, WA)
Primary Subfield: Neuroscience
Recruitment Status: Inquire for rotation/fellowship opportunities
Research Focus
Project Summary/Abstract: The field of optogenetics — utilizing light to engage biological systems — is widely used for the dissection of neural circuits, cellular signaling and manipulating neurophysiological systems in awake, behaving animals. However, while many new opsins have been developed and are actively used, challenges still remain, and the current technology lacks a full toolbox for sub-cellular, spatiotemporal control of signaling — the predominant means for neuromodulator communication in the brain. Here we propose, an innovative effort combining neuroscience with structural biology and high-throughput pharmacology for the development of a series of cutting-edge novel Opto-GPCRs that will allow spatiotemporally precise and pathway-selective control of neuromodulator signaling in vitro and in freely moving animals. In four aims across five leading laboratories, we will develop and test these novel tools in vitro and in vivo. Specifically, we will work to 1) Develop and fully optimize OptoGPCR-v3.0 (Gi coupled) receptors for enhanced spectral multiplexing and altered sensitivity using structure-function analysis together with mutant-library HTS landing pad system; 2) Dev…
Active NIH Awards
- 5U01NS128537-04: Next Generation Opto-GPCRs for Neuromodulatory Control (2026)
- 3U01NS128537-04S1: Next Generation Opto-GPCRs for Neuromodulatory Control (2026)
- 5R37DA033396-14: DISSECTING DYNORPHIN-KAPPA OPIOID MEDIATED REINSTATEMENT OF NICOTINE PREFERENCE (2026)
- 5R01MH112355-11: Decoding Locus Coeruleus Neural Circuits and Signaling In Negative Affect (2026)
- 5P30DA048736-08: Imaging and Neural Circuits Core (2026)
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