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Cortical layer-specific critical dynamics triggering perception
James H Marshel1, Yoon Seok Kim2, Timothy A Machado1,2
1CNC Department, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|July 20, 2019
Summary
Researchers precisely controlled individual neurons in the mouse neocortex using optogenetics. This stimulation drove neuronal networks and successfully elicited visual discrimination behavior, revealing layer-specific cortical dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Optogenetics
- Systems Neuroscience
Background:
- Neuronal activity patterns in the mammalian neocortex are hypothesized to underlie perceptual experiences.
- Understanding the causal link between specific neuronal activity and behavior is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of specific neuronal ensembles in visual discrimination.
- To explore the causal relationship between optogenetically-evoked neuronal activity and behavior.
- To characterize layer-specific dynamics within the neocortex during perceptual tasks.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a novel red-shifted channelrhodopsin (ChRmine) for neuronal control.
- Employed multiplexed multiphoton-holography (MultiSLM) for precise, large-volume neuronal stimulation.
- Recorded and analyzed neuronal activity in mouse neocortex during visual discrimination tasks.
Main Results:
- Stimulating stimulus-orientation-selective neurons recruited functionally related neuronal populations.
- Optogenetic activation of these ensembles successfully drove correct behavioral discrimination.
- Observed asymmetric propagation of neuronal activity from layer 2/3 to layer 5, with layer 5 ensembles being highly effective.
- Evoked population dynamics predicted behavior and mirrored natural visual representations.
Conclusions:
- Precise optogenetic control of neuronal ensembles can directly elicit specific perceptual behaviors.
- Neocortical processing exhibits distinct layer-specific dynamics during visual discrimination.
- Task learning enhances, but is not essential for, the recruitment of neuronal networks by targeted stimulation.
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