Parvalbumin Interneuron Plasticity for Consolidation of Reinforced Learning

Parvalbumin (PV) basket cells are widespread local interneurons that inhibit principal neurons and each other through perisomatic boutons. They enhance network function and regulate local ensemble activities, particularly in the γ range. Organized network activity is critically important for long-term memory consolidation during a late time window 11-15 h after acquisition. Here, we discuss the role of learning-related plasticity in PV neurons for long-term memory consolidation. The plasticity can lead to enhanced (high-PV) or reduced (low-PV) expression of PV/GAD67. High-PV plasticity is induced upon definite reinforced learning in early-born PV basket cells, whereas low-PV plasticity is induced upon provisional reinforced learning in late-born PV basket cells. The plasticity is first detectable 6 h after acquisition, at the end of a time window for memory specification through experience, and is critically important 11-15 h after acquisition for enhanced network activity and long-term memory consolidation. High- and low-PV plasticity appear to regulate activity in distinct local networks of principal neurons and PV basket cells. These findings suggest how flexibility and stability in learning and memory might be implemented through parallel circuits and networks.