Optogenetics has transformed neuroscience by giving researchers the ability to control genetically defined neurons with light. Aimpico lasers are purpose-built for optogenetics — delivering the right wavelengths, the right power, and the right modulation speed to activate or silence neural populations with precision and confidence.
Why the Laser Source Matters in Optogenetics
Wavelength Matching
Each opsin has a specific absorption spectrum. Mismatched wavelengths mean reduced activation efficiency, higher power requirements, and increased risk of off-target effects or tissue heating.
Power Delivery
Sufficient optical power must reach the target tissue — through a cranial window, implanted fiber optic cannula, or microscope objective. AIMPICO offers outputs from milliwatts to hundreds of milliwatts.
Fast Switching
Many protocols require light pulses from single pulses to sustained trains at 40 Hz or higher. AIMPICO diode lasers can be directly modulated at microsecond timescales for tight synchronisation with electrophysiology.
Stability
Power fluctuations introduce variability into neural responses. Low-noise, thermally stabilised laser output ensures each light pulse delivers the same dose of photons to the tissue.
Wavelengths for Common Opsins
| Opsin | Type | Peak Sensitivity | Recommended Laser |
|---|---|---|---|
| Channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) | Excitatory | ~470 nm | 473 nm DPSS or 488 nm diode |
| ChRmine | Excitatory | ~530 nm | 520 nm diode or 532 nm DPSS |
| C1V1 | Excitatory | ~540 nm | 532 nm DPSS |
| Halorhodopsin (NpHR) | Inhibitory | ~580 nm | 561 nm DPSS |
| Archaerhodopsin (Arch) | Inhibitory | ~560 nm | 561 nm DPSS |
| Jaws | Inhibitory | ~630 nm | 633 nm or 640 nm diode |
| ReaChR | Excitatory | ~590–630 nm | 589 nm DPSS or 633 nm diode |
| ChRmine (red-shifted) | Excitatory | ~600–650 nm | 633 nm or 640 nm diode |
| iC++ | Inhibitory | ~470 nm | 473 nm DPSS or 488 nm diode |
Not sure which laser fits your opsin? Our applications scientists can help you match wavelength, power, and delivery method to your experimental design.
Fiber-Coupled Options for In Vivo Work
Most in vivo optogenetics experiments deliver light through an optical fiber coupled to an implanted cannula. AIMPICO offers fiber-coupled laser configurations optimised for this workflow:
TTL and Analog Modulation
AIMPICO optogenetics lasers support both TTL (digital on/off) and analog modulation inputs, allowing straightforward integration with electrophysiology acquisition systems (Open Ephys, Intan, Blackrock), behavioural control software (Bonsai, Arduino, PulsePal), and custom timing electronics. Direct diode modulation eliminates the need for external mechanical shutters or acousto-optic modulators (AOMs), reducing system complexity and cost.
Typical Experimental Setups
Freely Moving Rodent Behaviour
Fiber-coupled laser → patch cable → rotary joint → implanted cannula. Stable output even with continuous fiber movement.
Head-Fixed Two-Photon + Optogenetics
Visible-wavelength AIMPICO laser for single-photon optogenetic activation alongside a two-photon imaging laser, with precise TTL synchronisation.
In Vitro Slice Electrophysiology
Laser light delivered through the microscope objective or a separate fiber illuminates opsin-expressing neurons during patch-clamp recordings.
Choosing the Right Laser for Your Experiment
Consider these factors when selecting your light source:
- Which opsin are you using? This determines the wavelength.
- What irradiance do you need at the tissue? Typical values range from 1–20 mW/mm² depending on the opsin and expression level.
- What modulation scheme do you need? Continuous illumination, pulsed trains, or complex temporal patterns?
- How are you delivering light? Free-space through an objective, single fiber, multi-fiber array, or micro-LED?
Ready to Get Started with Optogenetics?
Our team is experienced in helping researchers navigate laser selection, fiber coupling, and integration — tailored to your specific experimental design.