GABAergic synapses: their plasticity and role in sensory cortex.
The mammalian neocortex is composed of a variety of cell types organized in a highly interconnected circuit. GABAergic neurons account for only about 20% of cortical neurons. However, they show widespread connectivity and a high degree of diversity in morphology, location, electrophysiological properties and gene expression. In addition, distinct populations of inhibitory neurons have different sensory response properties, capacities for plasticity and sensitivities to changes in sensory experience. In this review we summarize experimental evidence regarding the properties of GABAergic neurons in primary sensory cortex. We will discuss how distinct GABAergic neurons and different forms of GABAergic inhibitory plasticity may contribute to shaping sensory cortical circuit activity and function.
SUNY Eye Research Consortium Buffalo, NY, USA ; Program in Neuroscience, SUNY - Stony Brook Stony Brook, NY, USA ; Medical Scientist Training Program, SUNY - Stony Brook Stony Brook, NY, USA.
Trevor C
TC
Griffen
SUNY Eye Research Consortium Buffalo, NY, USA ; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, SUNY - Stony Brook Stony Brook, NY, USA.
Arianna
A
Maffei
GABA; inhibition; inhibitory neurons; sensory cortex; synaptic plasticity