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Sequential transmission of task-relevant information in cortical neuronal networks
Nikolas A Francis1, Shoutik Mukherjee2, Loren Koçillari3
1Department of Biology & Brain and Behavior Institute, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA.
Cell Reports
|June 1, 2022
Summary
Specialized neurons in the auditory cortex form functional networks that process sensory information for decision-making. Network structure dynamically encodes task-relevant details and behavioral outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Auditory Perception
- Computational Neuroscience
Background:
- Cortical processing integrates sensory input with task relevance for behavioral decisions.
- Understanding neural representations of task-related information in cortical networks remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how task-related information is represented by neuronal activity and functional interactions in the primary auditory cortex.
- To elucidate the role of neuronal networks in encoding sensory information and guiding behavioral choices during a discrimination task.
Main Methods:
- Two-photon calcium imaging of neuronal activity in the primary auditory cortex of mice.
- Pure-tone discrimination task to assess behavioral performance.
- Granger causality analysis to infer functional network connectivity and information flow.
Main Results:
- A subset of neurons transiently encoded sensory information crucial for behavioral choice.
- Neurons formed functional networks with sequential information transmission.
- Network structure varied for target vs. non-target tones and encoded behavioral choice.
- Correct choices correlated with shorter communication timescales, higher functional correlations, and increased information redundancy.
Conclusions:
- Specialized neurons in the primary auditory cortex integrate task-related information.
- Functional network structures encode both sensory input and behavioral choice, adapting dynamically.
- Network dynamics reflect the efficiency and accuracy of auditory-guided decision-making.
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