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Published on: March 2, 2015
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Toward a Neurocentric View of Learning.
Heather K Titley1, Nicolas Brunel2, Christian Hansel1
1Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
Neuron
|July 7, 2017
Summary
Synaptic plasticity and intrinsic neuronal excitability both contribute to learning and memory engram formation. This research proposes a neurocentric view, highlighting intrinsic plasticity
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cellular Biology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Synaptic plasticity, such as long-term potentiation (LTP), is a key mechanism for learning and memory.
- Recent optogenetics research emphasizes the role of neuronal activation and engram cell integration in memory formation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence for the roles of synaptic and intrinsic plasticity in learning.
- To propose a model where synaptic plasticity shapes connectivity and intrinsic plasticity drives engram integration.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of optogenetic studies and research on synaptic and intrinsic plasticity.
- Analysis of mechanisms underlying neuronal ensemble formation and memory engrams.
Main Results:
- Ensemble integration in memory engrams can arise from both LTP and cell-autonomous changes in membrane excitability.
- Synaptic plasticity establishes connectivity maps, while intrinsic plasticity amplifies neuronal responsiveness.
Conclusions:
- Intrinsic plasticity acutely drives engram integration, complementing synaptic plasticity's role in connectivity.
- A shift towards a neurocentric, rather than exclusively synaptocentric, view of learning is proposed.
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