Objectif
This application addresses mechanisms linking the activity of single neurons with network events by defining the function of identified cell types in the cerebral cortex. The key hypotheses emerged from our experiments and propose that neurogliaform cells and axo-axonic cells achieve their function in the cortex through extreme forms of unspecificity and specificity, respectively. The project capitalizes on our discovery that neurogliaform cells reach GABAA and GABAB receptors on target cells through unitary volume transmission going beyond the classical theory which states that single cortical neurons act in or around synaptic junctions. We propose that the spatial unspecificity of neurotransmitter action leads to unprecedented functional capabilities for a single neuron simultaneously acting on neuronal, glial and vascular components of the surrounding area allowing neurogliaform cells to synchronize metabolic demand and supply in microcircuits. In contrast, axo-axonic cells represent extreme spatial specificity in the brain: terminals of axo-axonic cells exclusively target the axon initial segment of pyramidal neurons. Axo-axonic cells were considered as the most potent inhibitory neurons of the cortex. However, our experiments suggested that axo-axonic cells can be the most powerful excitatory neurons known to date by triggering complex network events. Our unprecedented recordings in the human cortex show that axo-axonic cells are crucial in activating functional assemblies which were implicated in higher order cognitive representations. We aim to define interactions between active cortical networks and axo-axonic cell triggered assemblies with an emphasis on mechanisms modulated by neurogliaform cells and commonly prescribed drugs.
Champ scientifique
Appel à propositions
ERC-2010-AdG_20100317
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Régime de financement
ERC-AG - ERC Advanced GrantInstitution d’accueil
6720 Szeged
Hongrie