Chemical genetics: receptor-ligand pairs for rapid manipulation of neuronal activity

Toward the functional dissection of neuronal circuits, a number of new genetic tools have been developed that enable rapid and reversible manipulation of genetically defined neuronal subtypes in intact mammalian brain circuits. Alongside the breakthrough technology of optogenetics, receptor-ligand pairs provide complementary approaches to modulate neuronal activity using chemical genetics.

► Rapid modulation of neuronal activity allows functional dissection of circuits. ► Optogenetics and chemical genetics provide alternative and complementary approaches. ► We review progress in the use of receptor-ligand pairs as chemical-genetic tools.