A plausible neural circuit for classical conditioning without synaptic plasticity.
The cellular bases of learning are currently under active investigation by both experimental and theoretical means. In this paper, a simple neuronal wiring diagram is proposed that can reproduce both simple and higher-order behavioral paradigms seen in invertebrate classical conditioning experiments. Learning in this model does not take place by modification of synaptic strength values. Instead, the model uses a layer of interneurons with modifiable thresholds for spike initiation, as suggested by the plasticity mechanisms thought to operate in Hermissenda [Alkon, D. L. (1983) Sci. Am. 249, 70-84]. The model therefore has an advantage in plausibility compared with more standard models using Hebb synapses or their functional equivalents, which have not yet been demonstrated in any invertebrate organism.
Tesauro
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Center for Complex Systems Research, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 61820.
D000818:Animals; D001048:Aplysia / Q000502:physiology; D003214:Conditioning, Classical / Q000502:physiology*; D007858:Learning / Q000502:physiology*; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D009434:Neural Pathways / Q000502:physiology; D009473:Neuronal Plasticity