Objective Molecular layer interneurons form an interconnected network in the cerebellar cortex that controls the activity of Purkinje cells. Even though much is known about the properties of these interneurons in isolated preparations, their activity pattern in vivo remains largely unknown. The present project proposes to investigate the functional status of the interneurons in awake, head-restrained mice, by performing two photon calcium imaging of the cerebellum with genetically-encoded calcium indicator GCaMP3. Imaging speed will be improved by implementing random access multi point scanning with acousto-optic deflectors. Once the basic activity pattern will be known, effect of sensory stimulation (tactile stimulation or eye puff) and rhythmic behavior (licking behavior) will be explored. In a second step of the project, calcium imaging of the interneurons will be combined with whole-cell recordings of postsynaptic Purkinje cells. In this manner the effects of interneuron network activity on the overall cerebellar circuit will be assessed. The results will be evaluated with the help of a collaborating modeling team. This study will shed light on the functional role of molecular layer interneurons, and more generally, on the way by which interneurons regulate the activity of brain network. It will also provide data that will help evaluating consequences of defects of gabaergic transmission in cerebellar pathologies. The applicant will benefit from the multidisciplinary training provided by this project. Fields of science natural scienceschemical sciencesinorganic chemistryalkaline earth metalsmedical and health sciencesbasic medicinepathologynatural sciencesphysical sciencestheoretical physicsparticle physicsphotons Programme(s) FP7-PEOPLE - Specific programme "People" implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013) Topic(s) FP7-PEOPLE-2011-IEF - Marie-Curie Action: "Intra-European fellowships for career development" Call for proposal FP7-PEOPLE-2011-IEF See other projects for this call Funding Scheme MC-IEF - Intra-European Fellowships (IEF) Coordinator CENTRE NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE SCIENTIFIQUE CNRS EU contribution € 201 932,40 Address RUE MICHEL ANGE 3 75794 Paris France See on map Region Ile-de-France Ile-de-France Paris Activity type Research Organisations Administrative Contact Franck Charron (Mr.) Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window Total cost No data