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Related Concept Videos

Neural Circuits01:25

Neural Circuits

Neural circuits and neuronal pools are two of the main structures found in the nervous system. Neural circuits are networks of neurons that work together to carry out a specific task or process. They consist of interconnected neurons and glial cells, which provide structural and metabolic support.
Neuronal pools are collections of nerve cells with similar functions and interact through chemical and electrical signals. These pools include both interneurons (the central neural circuit nodes that...
Neuronal Communication01:28

Neuronal Communication

Neurons, the fundamental units of the brain and nervous system, communicate through complex electrochemical signals that underpin all cognitive and bodily functions. This communication is primarily facilitated by a process involving the generation and propagation of an action potential along the axon of the neuron. When the internal electrical charge of a neuron surpasses a certain threshold, an action potential is triggered. This rapid change in voltage travels swiftly along the axon to the...
Overview of Synapses01:25

Overview of Synapses

A synapse is a specialized structure where two neurons connect, allowing them to pass an electrical or chemical signal to another neuron. It is the point of communication between neurons. The term "synapse" is derived from the Greek word "synapsis," which means "conjunction." The entire process of neural communication revolves around the synapse. When activated, a neuron releases chemicals known as neurotransmitters into the synapse. These neurotransmitters cross the synapse and bind to...
The Synapse02:47

The Synapse

Neurons communicate with one another by passing on their electrical signals to other neurons. A synapse is the location where two neurons meet to exchange signals. At the synapse, the neuron that sends the signal is called the presynaptic cell, while the neuron that receives the message is called the postsynaptic cell. Note that most neurons can be both presynaptic and postsynaptic, as they both transmit and receive information.
Synaptic Signaling01:09

Synaptic Signaling

Neurons communicate at synapses, or junctions, to excite or inhibit the activity of other neurons or target cells, such as muscles. Synapses may be chemical or electrical.
Most synapses are chemical, meaning an electrical impulse or action potential spurs the release of chemical messengers called neurotransmitters. The neuron sending the signal is called the presynaptic neuron, and the neuron receiving the signal is the postsynaptic neuron.
The presynaptic neuron fires an action potential that...
Synaptic Signaling01:12

Synaptic Signaling

Neurons communicate at synapses, or junctions, to excite or inhibit the activity of other neurons or target cells, such as muscles. Synapses may be chemical or electrical.

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Updated: Jun 11, 2026

Rewiring Neuronal Circuits: A New Method for Fast Neurite Extension and Functional Neuronal Connection
10:26

Rewiring Neuronal Circuits: A New Method for Fast Neurite Extension and Functional Neuronal Connection

Published on: June 13, 2017

Bridging the gaps between synapses, circuits, and behavior.

Pamela M England1

  • 1Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA. england@picasso.ucsf.edu

Chemistry & Biology
|July 9, 2010
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

New technologies enable precise control over genetically defined neurons, advancing our understanding of the mammalian brain's functional wiring and neuronal code. This brings us closer to deciphering how brain activity underlies perception, thought, emotion, and action.

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Perspectives on Neuroscience
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Last Updated: Jun 11, 2026

Rewiring Neuronal Circuits: A New Method for Fast Neurite Extension and Functional Neuronal Connection
10:26

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Published on: June 13, 2017

Perspectives on Neuroscience
26:41

Perspectives on Neuroscience

Published on: July 31, 2007

Two-Photon Polymerization 3D-Printing of Micro-scale Neuronal Cell Culture Devices
07:38

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Systems Neuroscience
  • Computational Neuroscience

Background:

  • The "decade of the brain" highlighted the need to understand brain function.
  • Cracking the neuronal code remains a significant challenge in neuroscience.
  • Existing technologies offer limited precision in controlling neural activity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review technologies for precise spatiotemporal remote control of neuronal activity.
  • To explain the design principles underlying these advanced neural control methods.
  • To discuss how these tools aid in mapping the functional wiring of the mammalian brain.

Main Methods:

  • Review of cutting-edge technologies for neuronal manipulation.
  • Analysis of methods for genetically targeting specific neuron populations.
  • Discussion of techniques enabling remote, real-time control of neural circuits.

Main Results:

  • Identification of technologies allowing precise spatiotemporal control over neuronal populations.
  • Demonstration of these technologies' utility in studying intact neural circuits.
  • Progress towards obtaining a functional wiring diagram of the mammalian brain.

Conclusions:

  • Advanced neural control technologies are crucial for deciphering the brain's code.
  • These tools facilitate a deeper understanding of how neuronal activity relates to cognitive functions and behavior.
  • The reviewed technologies represent a significant step forward in systems neuroscience research.