optoPAD
Closed-Loop Optogenetics for Feeding Studies
The optoPAD extends the flyPAD platform with real-time optogenetic stimulation capability. Detect feeding events via capacitance and trigger multicolor LED stimulation in a closed loop — creating 'virtual taste realities' for studying the neural circuits of feeding behavior.
Key Features
Virtual Taste Realities
Activate or inhibit gustatory neurons contingent on feeding events. Make bland food taste sweet, or sweet food taste bitter — in real time.
Closed-Loop Control
Sub-millisecond latency between feeding detection and optogenetic stimulation. Precise temporal control over neural manipulation.
Multiple Protocol Modes
Open-loop, closed-loop, reversal learning, bout-triggered stimulation, and probabilistic stimulation — all included.
Bidirectional Manipulation
Activate appetitive or aversive neural circuits to trigger or suppress feeding behaviors independently.
Bonsai Workflow Integration
Ready-to-use Bonsai workflows for all stimulation protocols. Easily customizable for novel experimental designs.
Modular Design
LED board mounts directly on flyPAD arenas. Upgrade existing flyPAD setups with optogenetic capability.
Technical Specifications
| Base System | flyPAD capacitance detection |
| LED Board | High-power multicolor LEDs (4 colors) |
| Control | MOSFET gates with current limiting resistors |
| Loop Latency | Sub-millisecond closed-loop response |
| Stimulation Modes | Open-loop, closed-loop, bout-triggered, reversal, probabilistic |
| Software | Custom Bonsai workflows (5 protocol variants) |
| Compatibility | Fits on top of standard flyPAD arenas |
Key Publications
optoPAD, a closed-loop optogenetics system to study the circuit basis of feeding behaviors
eLife (2019) | 44 citations
View publication →Related Applications
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