Viral vectors for neuronal cell type-specific visualization and manipulations.

ABSTRACT

Characterizing neuronal cell types demands efficient strategies for specific labeling and manipulation of individual subtypes to dissect their connectivity and functions. Recombinant viral technology offers a powerful toolbox for targeted transgene expression in specific neuronal populations. In order to achieve cell type-specific targeting, exciting progress has been made to alter viral tropisms, design rational delivery strategies, and drive selective expression patterns with engineered DNA sequences in viral genomes. For the latter case, emerging single-cell genomic analyses provide rich databases. In this review, we will summarize current status, and point out challenges, of using viral vectors for neuronal cell type-specific visualization and manipulations. With concerted efforts, progress will continue to be made toward developing viral vectors for the vast array of neuronal subtypes in the mammalian nervous system.