Ivan Soltesz
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- May 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195177015
- eISBN:
- 9780199864713
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195177015.001.1
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Neuroendocrine and Autonomic, Techniques
This book travels a colorful journey into the fascinatingly diverse world of interneurons, an important class of highly heterogeneous cells found in all cortical neuronal networks. Interneurons are ...
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This book travels a colorful journey into the fascinatingly diverse world of interneurons, an important class of highly heterogeneous cells found in all cortical neuronal networks. Interneurons are known to play key roles in many brain functions, from sensory processing to neuronal oscillations linked to learning and memory. This book aims to provide new insights into the striking degree of cellular diversity found in interneuronal microcircuits. The book discusses the history of research into interneuronal variability, the developmental origins of interneuronal diversity, the functional roles of heterogeneity in neuronal circuits, contemporary interneuronal classification systems, and the genetic and homeostatic mechanisms that shape the degree of cell to cell variability within interneuronal populations. It elaborates on new ideas about interneuronal diversity that rest upon recent theoretical and experimental results, with arguments touching upon evolution, animal behavior, and the mathematical theory of small world networks.Less
This book travels a colorful journey into the fascinatingly diverse world of interneurons, an important class of highly heterogeneous cells found in all cortical neuronal networks. Interneurons are known to play key roles in many brain functions, from sensory processing to neuronal oscillations linked to learning and memory. This book aims to provide new insights into the striking degree of cellular diversity found in interneuronal microcircuits. The book discusses the history of research into interneuronal variability, the developmental origins of interneuronal diversity, the functional roles of heterogeneity in neuronal circuits, contemporary interneuronal classification systems, and the genetic and homeostatic mechanisms that shape the degree of cell to cell variability within interneuronal populations. It elaborates on new ideas about interneuronal diversity that rest upon recent theoretical and experimental results, with arguments touching upon evolution, animal behavior, and the mathematical theory of small world networks.
Nikolas Rose and Joelle M. Abi-Rached
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691149608
- eISBN:
- 9781400846337
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691149608.003.0002
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Development
This chapter examines the neuromolecular and plastic brain. Ideas about plasticity and the openness of brains to environment influences, from initial evidence about nerve development, through the ...
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This chapter examines the neuromolecular and plastic brain. Ideas about plasticity and the openness of brains to environment influences, from initial evidence about nerve development, through the recognition that synaptic plasticity was the very basis of learning and memory, to evidence about the influence of environment on gene expression and the persistence throughout life of the capacity to make new neurons—all this made the neuromolecular brain seem exquisitely open to its milieu, with changes at the molecular level occurring throughout the course of a human life and thus shaping the growth, organization, and regeneration of neurons and neuronal circuits at time scales from the millisecond to the decade. This was an opportunity to explore the myriad ways in which the milieu got “under the skin,” implying an openness of these molecular processes of the brain to biography, sociality, and culture, and hence perhaps even to history and politics.Less
This chapter examines the neuromolecular and plastic brain. Ideas about plasticity and the openness of brains to environment influences, from initial evidence about nerve development, through the recognition that synaptic plasticity was the very basis of learning and memory, to evidence about the influence of environment on gene expression and the persistence throughout life of the capacity to make new neurons—all this made the neuromolecular brain seem exquisitely open to its milieu, with changes at the molecular level occurring throughout the course of a human life and thus shaping the growth, organization, and regeneration of neurons and neuronal circuits at time scales from the millisecond to the decade. This was an opportunity to explore the myriad ways in which the milieu got “under the skin,” implying an openness of these molecular processes of the brain to biography, sociality, and culture, and hence perhaps even to history and politics.
Wolfgang Wurst and Nilima Prakash
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195373035
- eISBN:
- 9780199865543
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195373035.003.0010
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Molecular and Cellular Systems, History of Neuroscience
Meso-diencephalic dopaminergic (mdDA) neurons play a key role in several human brain functions and are thus also involved in the pathophysiology of severe neurological and psychiatric disorders. The ...
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Meso-diencephalic dopaminergic (mdDA) neurons play a key role in several human brain functions and are thus also involved in the pathophysiology of severe neurological and psychiatric disorders. The prospect of regenerative therapies for some of these disorders has fueled the interest of developmental neurobiologists in deciphering the molecular cues and processes controlling the generation of the mdDA neurons in the vertebrate brain. Rodents, in particular the mouse, have served as the classical model organism due to their phylogenetic relationship to humans, their relatively well-characterized mdDA system on both the anatomical and physiological levels, and the propensity of the mouse to undergo genetic manipulation. This chapter focuses on in vivo data obtained from the analyses of mutant mice, as several reports have indicated that cell culture-based in vitro data do not always recapitulate the in vivo situation.Less
Meso-diencephalic dopaminergic (mdDA) neurons play a key role in several human brain functions and are thus also involved in the pathophysiology of severe neurological and psychiatric disorders. The prospect of regenerative therapies for some of these disorders has fueled the interest of developmental neurobiologists in deciphering the molecular cues and processes controlling the generation of the mdDA neurons in the vertebrate brain. Rodents, in particular the mouse, have served as the classical model organism due to their phylogenetic relationship to humans, their relatively well-characterized mdDA system on both the anatomical and physiological levels, and the propensity of the mouse to undergo genetic manipulation. This chapter focuses on in vivo data obtained from the analyses of mutant mice, as several reports have indicated that cell culture-based in vitro data do not always recapitulate the in vivo situation.
Alvin I. Goldman
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780195138924
- eISBN:
- 9780199786480
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195138929.003.0008
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Philosophy of Mind
A wide variety of well-studied phenomena associated with mindreading are surveyed to probe the consistency of what is known about them with our version of simulation theory. These phenomena include ...
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A wide variety of well-studied phenomena associated with mindreading are surveyed to probe the consistency of what is known about them with our version of simulation theory. These phenomena include key ontogenetic stages such as gaze following, early intention tracking, and role play, as well as the psychopathology of autism. A link between mirror-neuron dysfunction and autism provides suggestive support for the simulation approach. Our distinction between low-level and high-level simulation fits comfortably with dual-process theories in cognitive science that draw a fundamental distinction between automatic and controlled processes. A tentative conjecture is offered about the evolution of simulation and mindreading, at least for more primitive kinds of simulation.Less
A wide variety of well-studied phenomena associated with mindreading are surveyed to probe the consistency of what is known about them with our version of simulation theory. These phenomena include key ontogenetic stages such as gaze following, early intention tracking, and role play, as well as the psychopathology of autism. A link between mirror-neuron dysfunction and autism provides suggestive support for the simulation approach. Our distinction between low-level and high-level simulation fits comfortably with dual-process theories in cognitive science that draw a fundamental distinction between automatic and controlled processes. A tentative conjecture is offered about the evolution of simulation and mindreading, at least for more primitive kinds of simulation.
Robert E. Burke
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195373035
- eISBN:
- 9780199865543
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195373035.003.0011
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Molecular and Cellular Systems, History of Neuroscience
Following their birth in the prenatal period, dopamine neurons of the mesencephalon undergo a complex series of cellular events in response to external cues, which ultimately result in the ...
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Following their birth in the prenatal period, dopamine neurons of the mesencephalon undergo a complex series of cellular events in response to external cues, which ultimately result in the establishment of their phenotype. This chapter focuses on a single important event in the postnatal development of mesencephalic dopamine neurons: the determination of their final adult number. The postnatal development of mesencephalic dopamine neurons follows the fundamental principles of classic neurotrophic theory. There is an apoptotic naturally occurring cell death (NCD) event that is maximal in both rodents and primates during the period of maximal development of target contact. As proposed by classic theory, this NCD event is regulated by target contact and retrograde neurotrophic support. In addition, there is evidence that it may also be regulated by afferent anterograde influences and autocrine control.Less
Following their birth in the prenatal period, dopamine neurons of the mesencephalon undergo a complex series of cellular events in response to external cues, which ultimately result in the establishment of their phenotype. This chapter focuses on a single important event in the postnatal development of mesencephalic dopamine neurons: the determination of their final adult number. The postnatal development of mesencephalic dopamine neurons follows the fundamental principles of classic neurotrophic theory. There is an apoptotic naturally occurring cell death (NCD) event that is maximal in both rodents and primates during the period of maximal development of target contact. As proposed by classic theory, this NCD event is regulated by target contact and retrograde neurotrophic support. In addition, there is evidence that it may also be regulated by afferent anterograde influences and autocrine control.
Gordon M. Shepherd
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195391503
- eISBN:
- 9780199863464
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195391503.003.0008
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, History of Neuroscience
This chapter details early studies on the neuron doctrine. The neuron doctrine arose as an organizing principle for the nervous system in the late 19th century. The advances in the 1950s provided the ...
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This chapter details early studies on the neuron doctrine. The neuron doctrine arose as an organizing principle for the nervous system in the late 19th century. The advances in the 1950s provided the first adequate tests of its validity, bringing about a revolution in the functional concept of the neuron. Much of this revolution concerns the functional significance of the short processes, the dendrites, at the next higher level of organization of the neuron above the synapse.Less
This chapter details early studies on the neuron doctrine. The neuron doctrine arose as an organizing principle for the nervous system in the late 19th century. The advances in the 1950s provided the first adequate tests of its validity, bringing about a revolution in the functional concept of the neuron. Much of this revolution concerns the functional significance of the short processes, the dendrites, at the next higher level of organization of the neuron above the synapse.
Marco A. Huertasand and Gregory D. Smith
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780199235070
- eISBN:
- 9780191715778
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199235070.003.0008
- Subject:
- Mathematics, Biostatistics
The interaction of two populations of integrate-and-fire-or-burst neurons representing thalamocortical cells from the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN) and thalamic reticular cells from the ...
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The interaction of two populations of integrate-and-fire-or-burst neurons representing thalamocortical cells from the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN) and thalamic reticular cells from the perigeniculate nucleus (PGN) is studied using a population density approach. A two-dimensional probability density function that evolves according to a time-dependent advection-reaction equation gives the distribution of cells in each population over the membrane potential and de-inactivation level of a low-threshold calcium current. In the absence of retinal drive, the population density network model exhibits rhythmic bursting. In the presence of constant retinal input, the aroused LGN/PGN population density model displays a wide range of responses depending on cellular parameters and network connectivity.Less
The interaction of two populations of integrate-and-fire-or-burst neurons representing thalamocortical cells from the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN) and thalamic reticular cells from the perigeniculate nucleus (PGN) is studied using a population density approach. A two-dimensional probability density function that evolves according to a time-dependent advection-reaction equation gives the distribution of cells in each population over the membrane potential and de-inactivation level of a low-threshold calcium current. In the absence of retinal drive, the population density network model exhibits rhythmic bursting. In the presence of constant retinal input, the aroused LGN/PGN population density model displays a wide range of responses depending on cellular parameters and network connectivity.
Spruston Nelson and McBain Chris
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- May 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195100273
- eISBN:
- 9780199864133
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195100273.003.0005
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Molecular and Cellular Systems, Behavioral Neuroscience
This chapter summarizes the wealth of structural, histological, and physiological information available for hippocampal neurons. Most of the data on this topic come from studies of the rat ...
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This chapter summarizes the wealth of structural, histological, and physiological information available for hippocampal neurons. Most of the data on this topic come from studies of the rat hippocampal formation. The chapter begins with the CA1 pyramidal neuron since it is the most studied class of neuron in the brain and probably better understood from both structural and functional points of view than any other type of neuron in the hippocampus. It then compares the function of the other pyramidal neurons in the hippocampus: those in CA3 and the subiculum. It covers two nonpyramidal excitatory neurons in the hippocampus: granule cells of the dentate gyrus and mossy cells of the hilus. It also describes the properties of a variety of neurons in other regions comprising the hippocampal formation: the entorhinal cortex, presubiculum, and parasubiculum. Finally, the many types of interneurons found in the hippocampus are considered.Less
This chapter summarizes the wealth of structural, histological, and physiological information available for hippocampal neurons. Most of the data on this topic come from studies of the rat hippocampal formation. The chapter begins with the CA1 pyramidal neuron since it is the most studied class of neuron in the brain and probably better understood from both structural and functional points of view than any other type of neuron in the hippocampus. It then compares the function of the other pyramidal neurons in the hippocampus: those in CA3 and the subiculum. It covers two nonpyramidal excitatory neurons in the hippocampus: granule cells of the dentate gyrus and mossy cells of the hilus. It also describes the properties of a variety of neurons in other regions comprising the hippocampal formation: the entorhinal cortex, presubiculum, and parasubiculum. Finally, the many types of interneurons found in the hippocampus are considered.
Kristjan R. Jessen and William D. Richardson (eds)
- Published in print:
- 1997
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9781872748542
- eISBN:
- 9780191724367
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9781872748542.001.0001
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Development
The majority of cells in the nervous system are glial cells. During development, these cells provide growth factors that stimulate the proliferation, migration, and survival of neurons and their ...
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The majority of cells in the nervous system are glial cells. During development, these cells provide growth factors that stimulate the proliferation, migration, and survival of neurons and their precursors, and promote and guide axonal growth. In the mature nervous system, glial cells provide insulating myelin sheath around axons and provide metabolic and structural support for neurons. Glial cells also have a major influence on the local response to injury of central nerve tracts and the peripheral nervous system, either promoting, or inhibiting, axonal regrowth and recovery of lost function. This book provides a comprehensive overview of research into the development, function, and malfunction of glial cells. It offers a compelling insight into how basic research throws light onto diseases and disorders and points the way towards treatments.Less
The majority of cells in the nervous system are glial cells. During development, these cells provide growth factors that stimulate the proliferation, migration, and survival of neurons and their precursors, and promote and guide axonal growth. In the mature nervous system, glial cells provide insulating myelin sheath around axons and provide metabolic and structural support for neurons. Glial cells also have a major influence on the local response to injury of central nerve tracts and the peripheral nervous system, either promoting, or inhibiting, axonal regrowth and recovery of lost function. This book provides a comprehensive overview of research into the development, function, and malfunction of glial cells. It offers a compelling insight into how basic research throws light onto diseases and disorders and points the way towards treatments.
Malcolm Burrows
- Published in print:
- 1996
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198523444
- eISBN:
- 9780191724411
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198523444.001.0001
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Invertebrate Neurobiology
Studies of insect nervous systems have made an immense contribution to our understanding of how a brain works and the way that the connections between constituent neurons are formed during ...
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Studies of insect nervous systems have made an immense contribution to our understanding of how a brain works and the way that the connections between constituent neurons are formed during development. This book brings these together. By concentrating largely on one insect, the locust, it unravels the mechanisms by which a brain integrates the vast array of sensory information to generate appropriate movements and behaviour. The book first describes the basic structure of an insect brain and how this complex structure is formed during embryonic development. The cellular properties of the different types of neurons, and the way they are altered by neurosecretions, are then analysed with respect to the integrative actions of these neurons during behaviour. Finally, the various movements that an insect performs are investigated at the cellular level to illustrate particular features of the integrative processing. Throughout, the book emphasises how knowledge of these simpler nervous systems contributes to our understanding of more complex brains, and at the same time provides the functional synthesis into which future molecular and computational studies can be woven.Less
Studies of insect nervous systems have made an immense contribution to our understanding of how a brain works and the way that the connections between constituent neurons are formed during development. This book brings these together. By concentrating largely on one insect, the locust, it unravels the mechanisms by which a brain integrates the vast array of sensory information to generate appropriate movements and behaviour. The book first describes the basic structure of an insect brain and how this complex structure is formed during embryonic development. The cellular properties of the different types of neurons, and the way they are altered by neurosecretions, are then analysed with respect to the integrative actions of these neurons during behaviour. Finally, the various movements that an insect performs are investigated at the cellular level to illustrate particular features of the integrative processing. Throughout, the book emphasises how knowledge of these simpler nervous systems contributes to our understanding of more complex brains, and at the same time provides the functional synthesis into which future molecular and computational studies can be woven.
Mircea Steriade and Igor Timofeev
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780198574002
- eISBN:
- 9780191724145
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198574002.003.0015
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Behavioral Neuroscience
This chapter argues that spontaneously occurring brain rhythms during slow wave sleep (SWS) produce plastic changes in thalamic and neocortical neurons. It discusses the role played by augmenting ...
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This chapter argues that spontaneously occurring brain rhythms during slow wave sleep (SWS) produce plastic changes in thalamic and neocortical neurons. It discusses the role played by augmenting responses elicited by stimuli at 10 Hz, which are the experimental model of sleep spindles, in producing plastic changes in neuronal properties through the rhythmic repetition of spike-bursts and spike-trains fired by thalamic and cortical neurons.Less
This chapter argues that spontaneously occurring brain rhythms during slow wave sleep (SWS) produce plastic changes in thalamic and neocortical neurons. It discusses the role played by augmenting responses elicited by stimuli at 10 Hz, which are the experimental model of sleep spindles, in producing plastic changes in neuronal properties through the rhythmic repetition of spike-bursts and spike-trains fired by thalamic and cortical neurons.
Edmund T. Rolls
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195323245
- eISBN:
- 9780199869268
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195323245.003.0015
- Subject:
- Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience
This chapter examines how space is represented in the primate hippocampus, how this is related to the memory and spatial functions performed by the hippocampus, and how the hippocampus performs these ...
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This chapter examines how space is represented in the primate hippocampus, how this is related to the memory and spatial functions performed by the hippocampus, and how the hippocampus performs these functions. It is shown that in the primate hippocampal spatial-view cells could be involved in arbitrary associations with the objects and rewards which are presented at particular viewed locations. A new investigation of object-place recall memory is described, which shows some of the representations that become active within the hippocampus when places are recalled from objects.Less
This chapter examines how space is represented in the primate hippocampus, how this is related to the memory and spatial functions performed by the hippocampus, and how the hippocampus performs these functions. It is shown that in the primate hippocampal spatial-view cells could be involved in arbitrary associations with the objects and rewards which are presented at particular viewed locations. A new investigation of object-place recall memory is described, which shows some of the representations that become active within the hippocampus when places are recalled from objects.
Wendy A. Suzuki
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195323245
- eISBN:
- 9780199869268
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195323245.003.0016
- Subject:
- Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience
This chapter reviews over thirty years of findings from behavioral neurophysiological recordings in the monkey hippocampus. It shows that consistent with the memory space hypothesis, hippocampal ...
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This chapter reviews over thirty years of findings from behavioral neurophysiological recordings in the monkey hippocampus. It shows that consistent with the memory space hypothesis, hippocampal neurons provide a rich array of responses that signal all aspects of the ongoing memory trial. It also discuss more recent studies showing strong associative learning signals as well as long-term memory signals in the monkey hippocampus that provide further insight into the plastic and mnemonic properties of hippocampal neurons.Less
This chapter reviews over thirty years of findings from behavioral neurophysiological recordings in the monkey hippocampus. It shows that consistent with the memory space hypothesis, hippocampal neurons provide a rich array of responses that signal all aspects of the ongoing memory trial. It also discuss more recent studies showing strong associative learning signals as well as long-term memory signals in the monkey hippocampus that provide further insight into the plastic and mnemonic properties of hippocampal neurons.
Amy L. Griffin, Howard Eichenbaum, and Michael E. Hasselmo
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195323245
- eISBN:
- 9780199869268
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195323245.003.0023
- Subject:
- Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience
Along with place cells, the hippocampal theta rhythm is one of the most predominant and well-studied physiological patterns in the hippocampal literature. This chapter outlines the major behavioral ...
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Along with place cells, the hippocampal theta rhythm is one of the most predominant and well-studied physiological patterns in the hippocampal literature. This chapter outlines the major behavioral correlates of theta rhythm, particularly pertaining to learning and memory, and then discusses the relationship between theta rhythm and the activity of individual neurons (including place cells) in hippocampus. Computational models that have been used to link learning and memory functions to theta rhythm and theta-related hippocampal unit firing are reviewed to generate hypotheses for future experimental studies.Less
Along with place cells, the hippocampal theta rhythm is one of the most predominant and well-studied physiological patterns in the hippocampal literature. This chapter outlines the major behavioral correlates of theta rhythm, particularly pertaining to learning and memory, and then discusses the relationship between theta rhythm and the activity of individual neurons (including place cells) in hippocampus. Computational models that have been used to link learning and memory functions to theta rhythm and theta-related hippocampal unit firing are reviewed to generate hypotheses for future experimental studies.
Sara N. Burke and Carol A. Barnes
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195323245
- eISBN:
- 9780199869268
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195323245.003.0028
- Subject:
- Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience
This chapter reviews current knowledge about aged neural ensembles in the hippocampus and how alterations in the dynamics of these circuits are linked to memory decline. Topics discussed include ...
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This chapter reviews current knowledge about aged neural ensembles in the hippocampus and how alterations in the dynamics of these circuits are linked to memory decline. Topics discussed include fundamental properties of place cells in young and old rats, advanced age and the dynamic properties of hippocampal place cells, and memory decline. It is shown that old rats have notable differences in the dynamic properties of CA1 place fields, and several of these differences correspond with observed age-associated behavioral deficits. Aged rats fail to show experience-dependent place field expansion plasticity to the same extent as young rats. Between episodes of experience in a single environment, aged rats are also impaired at maintaining stable spatial representations in the CA1 subregion of the hippocampus. This observation is consistent with the finding that old rats exhibit impaired performance on tasks requiring the solution of an allocentric spatial reference frame.Less
This chapter reviews current knowledge about aged neural ensembles in the hippocampus and how alterations in the dynamics of these circuits are linked to memory decline. Topics discussed include fundamental properties of place cells in young and old rats, advanced age and the dynamic properties of hippocampal place cells, and memory decline. It is shown that old rats have notable differences in the dynamic properties of CA1 place fields, and several of these differences correspond with observed age-associated behavioral deficits. Aged rats fail to show experience-dependent place field expansion plasticity to the same extent as young rats. Between episodes of experience in a single environment, aged rats are also impaired at maintaining stable spatial representations in the CA1 subregion of the hippocampus. This observation is consistent with the finding that old rats exhibit impaired performance on tasks requiring the solution of an allocentric spatial reference frame.
Kathryn J. Jeffery
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195323245
- eISBN:
- 9780199869268
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195323245.003.0005
- Subject:
- Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience
This chapter reviews attempts to determine how activity of neurons in the place system — place cells and the more recently discovered head direction and entorhinal grid cells — relates to what the ...
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This chapter reviews attempts to determine how activity of neurons in the place system — place cells and the more recently discovered head direction and entorhinal grid cells — relates to what the animal “knows”, as manifest by how it behaves. Beginning with O'Keefe and Nadel's cognitive map hypothesis, the chapter explores the extent to which behavioral experiments have supported this idea, before turning to the question of how, if at all, these neurons contribute to episodic memory. It argues that while data suggesting a role for place cells in encoding transient events are scarce, data suggesting that cells may encode the spatial-contextual scaffolding for the attachment of episodic memory are plentiful and plausible.Less
This chapter reviews attempts to determine how activity of neurons in the place system — place cells and the more recently discovered head direction and entorhinal grid cells — relates to what the animal “knows”, as manifest by how it behaves. Beginning with O'Keefe and Nadel's cognitive map hypothesis, the chapter explores the extent to which behavioral experiments have supported this idea, before turning to the question of how, if at all, these neurons contribute to episodic memory. It argues that while data suggesting a role for place cells in encoding transient events are scarce, data suggesting that cells may encode the spatial-contextual scaffolding for the attachment of episodic memory are plentiful and plausible.
David C. Rowland and Clifford G. Kentros
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195323245
- eISBN:
- 9780199869268
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195323245.003.0008
- Subject:
- Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience
This chapter examines the hypothesis that attention aids memory formation by providing neuromodulatory input that turns transient, homosynaptic plasticity to long-lasting heterosynaptic plasticity. ...
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This chapter examines the hypothesis that attention aids memory formation by providing neuromodulatory input that turns transient, homosynaptic plasticity to long-lasting heterosynaptic plasticity. It addresses the following questions. Are the firing patterns of hippocampal neurons learned? Do they require plasticity like that seen in reduced hippocampal preparations? Are the firing properties of hippocampal neurons attentionally modulated? Evidence suggests that place fields require experience to be constructed, and that plasticity is involved in this process, thus, the first two questions can be answered positively even though the mechanistic details remain elusive. However, the role of attention in the firing patterns of hippocampal neurons, remains more problematic. This is not surprising because this part deals with cognitive rather than cellular mechanisms, and the mechanistic understanding of cognitive neuroscience is still in its infancy relative to that of cellular neuroscience.Less
This chapter examines the hypothesis that attention aids memory formation by providing neuromodulatory input that turns transient, homosynaptic plasticity to long-lasting heterosynaptic plasticity. It addresses the following questions. Are the firing patterns of hippocampal neurons learned? Do they require plasticity like that seen in reduced hippocampal preparations? Are the firing properties of hippocampal neurons attentionally modulated? Evidence suggests that place fields require experience to be constructed, and that plasticity is involved in this process, thus, the first two questions can be answered positively even though the mechanistic details remain elusive. However, the role of attention in the firing patterns of hippocampal neurons, remains more problematic. This is not surprising because this part deals with cognitive rather than cellular mechanisms, and the mechanistic understanding of cognitive neuroscience is still in its infancy relative to that of cellular neuroscience.
K.J. Jeffery (ed.)
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198515241
- eISBN:
- 9780191687914
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198515241.001.0001
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Behavioral Neuroscience
This book explores the relationship between cellular processes and animal behaviour. It does this by focusing on the domain of navigation, bringing together scientists from either side of the ...
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This book explores the relationship between cellular processes and animal behaviour. It does this by focusing on the domain of navigation, bringing together scientists from either side of the brain-behaviour divide in an attempt to explain the linkage between spatial behaviour and the underlying activity of neurons. The book is organised into two sections. Section One deals with the so-called ‘higher’ levels of description — studies of spatial behaviour and the brain areas that might underlie such behaviour. It begins with insects, remarkably sophisticated navigators, and ends with humans, examining along the way issues such as whether animal brains contain maps and whether spatial and non-spatial information interact, and if so, how? Section Two delves further into the brain and focuses on the mammalian representation of space and the role of place cells. These issues have far wider ramifications than simply helping us to understand the process of navigation. This system might provide a model for how other forms of knowledge, beliefs, and intentions are encoded in neurons.Less
This book explores the relationship between cellular processes and animal behaviour. It does this by focusing on the domain of navigation, bringing together scientists from either side of the brain-behaviour divide in an attempt to explain the linkage between spatial behaviour and the underlying activity of neurons. The book is organised into two sections. Section One deals with the so-called ‘higher’ levels of description — studies of spatial behaviour and the brain areas that might underlie such behaviour. It begins with insects, remarkably sophisticated navigators, and ends with humans, examining along the way issues such as whether animal brains contain maps and whether spatial and non-spatial information interact, and if so, how? Section Two delves further into the brain and focuses on the mammalian representation of space and the role of place cells. These issues have far wider ramifications than simply helping us to understand the process of navigation. This system might provide a model for how other forms of knowledge, beliefs, and intentions are encoded in neurons.
Paul Katz (ed.)
- Published in print:
- 1999
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198524243
- eISBN:
- 9780191724435
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198524243.001.0001
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Behavioral Neuroscience
There are many modes of communication that neurons use to transmit information besides what has come to be called neurotransmission. Many of these other types of communication can be classified as ...
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There are many modes of communication that neurons use to transmit information besides what has come to be called neurotransmission. Many of these other types of communication can be classified as neuromodulatory, where instead of conveying excitation or inhibition, the signal from one neuron changes the properties of other neurons or synapses. This form of neuronal communication is often overlooked by systems physiologists, but it is extremely prevalent in the nervous system and needs to be included in any description of how the nervous system processes information. This book provides the foundations for understanding the cellular and molecular basis for neuromodulatory effects. It illustrates some key examples of the roles played by neuromodulation in sensory processing, neuromuscular transmission, generation of motor behaviours, and learning. Finally, the book seeks to point out areas that are likely to be of importance in the future study of information processing by the nervous system. It also summarizes a vast amount of research, and puts it into the context of how these cellular mechanisms are used in systems of neurons. By spanning the levels of analysis from sub-cellular mechanisms through cellular properties and neuronal systems to behaviour, the book provides a framework for understanding this currently exploding field of research.Less
There are many modes of communication that neurons use to transmit information besides what has come to be called neurotransmission. Many of these other types of communication can be classified as neuromodulatory, where instead of conveying excitation or inhibition, the signal from one neuron changes the properties of other neurons or synapses. This form of neuronal communication is often overlooked by systems physiologists, but it is extremely prevalent in the nervous system and needs to be included in any description of how the nervous system processes information. This book provides the foundations for understanding the cellular and molecular basis for neuromodulatory effects. It illustrates some key examples of the roles played by neuromodulation in sensory processing, neuromuscular transmission, generation of motor behaviours, and learning. Finally, the book seeks to point out areas that are likely to be of importance in the future study of information processing by the nervous system. It also summarizes a vast amount of research, and puts it into the context of how these cellular mechanisms are used in systems of neurons. By spanning the levels of analysis from sub-cellular mechanisms through cellular properties and neuronal systems to behaviour, the book provides a framework for understanding this currently exploding field of research.
Gary L. Wenk
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- September 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195388541
- eISBN:
- 9780199863587
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195388541.003.0001
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Behavioral Neuroscience, Neuroendocrine and Autonomic
Drugs and foods can affect your brain and therefore your behavior. It is becoming increasingly difficult to define what is a drug (i.e., something that your brain wants or needs in order to function ...
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Drugs and foods can affect your brain and therefore your behavior. It is becoming increasingly difficult to define what is a drug (i.e., something that your brain wants or needs in order to function optimally) and what is a food (i.e., something that your body wants or needs in order to function optimally). The contents of your diet will only act upon your brain if in some way they chemically resemble an actual neurotransmitter within the brain, or if they are able to interact with an essential biochemical processes in your brain that influences the production, release, or inactivation of a neurotransmitter. Drugs and the contents of our diet often interact with these processes and alter how you think and feel. For example, the constant consumption of caffeine, nicotine, sugar, or heroin can produce changes within your brain that lead to craving with their absence from the diet. As far as your brain is concerned, everything you consume is a drug.Less
Drugs and foods can affect your brain and therefore your behavior. It is becoming increasingly difficult to define what is a drug (i.e., something that your brain wants or needs in order to function optimally) and what is a food (i.e., something that your body wants or needs in order to function optimally). The contents of your diet will only act upon your brain if in some way they chemically resemble an actual neurotransmitter within the brain, or if they are able to interact with an essential biochemical processes in your brain that influences the production, release, or inactivation of a neurotransmitter. Drugs and the contents of our diet often interact with these processes and alter how you think and feel. For example, the constant consumption of caffeine, nicotine, sugar, or heroin can produce changes within your brain that lead to craving with their absence from the diet. As far as your brain is concerned, everything you consume is a drug.
