Long-Range GABAergic Projections of Cortical Origin in Brain Function.
Jocelyn Urrutia-Piñones1,2, Camila Morales-Moraga2,3, Nicole Sanguinetti-González1,2
1Ph.D. Program in Neuroscience, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile.
Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience
|April 8, 2022
Summary
Long-range GABAergic neurons (LRGNs) originating from the cortex and hippocampus extend beyond local inhibition. These LRGNs form distinct circuits, influencing brain function and synchronizing network activity.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cellular Neuroscience
Background:
- Traditionally, long-range GABAergic projections were thought to originate from subcortical areas.
- Recent findings reveal that cortical GABAergic neurons also possess long-range projections to cortical and subcortical regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and delineate the types of long-range GABAergic neurons (LRGNs) from the hippocampus and neocortex.
- To understand the anatomical and functional circuits formed by LRGNs and their role in behavior.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on long-range GABAergic neurons.
- Analysis of anatomical connectivity patterns (cortico-cortical and cortico-fugal).
- Functional circuit analysis related to network synchronization and behavior.
Main Results:
- Cortical LRGNs represent distinct populations with specific connectivity patterns.
- These neurons are not only involved in local inhibition but also in long-range communication.
- LRGNs likely contribute to timed disinhibition in target regions, synchronizing network activity.
Conclusions:
- Long-range GABAergic neurons are a newly recognized component of cortical output.
- They work alongside excitatory projections to modulate brain function.
- Understanding LRGNs is crucial for comprehending brain function in both health and disease states.
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