Protocol for near-infrared optogenetics manipulation of neurons and motor behavior in C. elegans using emissive upconversion nanoparticles.

In deep tissue, optogenetics faces limitations with visible light. Here, we present a protocol for near-infrared (NIR) optogenetics manipulation of neurons and motor behavior in Caenorhabditis elegans using emissive upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs). We describe steps for synthesizing and modifying UCNPs.