Molecular and Genetic Approaches for Behavioral Analysis of Protein Function

Behavioral neuroscientists traditionally have relied on pharmacological and lesion methods to explore the neural basis of complex behaviors. In the past decade, molecular and genetic approaches have been added to the repertoire, but their benefits are often severely constrained by a lack of temporal and spatial control over target protein modulation. Recent advances have allowed investigators to manipulate neuronal protein levels with far greater control over target selectivity, regional and cellular specificity, and duration of action than previously available. This article compares strengths and weaknesses in current molecular and genetic approaches for studying neuronal protein function in complex behaviors.