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Ethological learning during the critical period resets synaptic setpoints in mouse binocular visual cortex.
Diane Bissen1, Brian A Cary1, Amanda Zhang1
1Department of Biology, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA 02453, USA.
Neuron
|July 15, 2026
Summary
Active learning during critical periods reshapes brain circuitry. Prey capture training in mice enhanced visual function by remodeling neural connections, a process dependent on tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α).
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Systems Neuroscience
Background:
- Critical periods are key developmental stages for refining neural circuits.
- Visual system plasticity during critical periods is well-studied, but the role of active, ethological experiences remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate structural and functional plasticity in the visual cortex during a critical period using prey capture learning.
- To understand how active visual learning impacts neuronal circuitry and behavior.
Main Methods:
- Utilized prey capture learning paradigm in critical-period mice.
- Assessed structural plasticity via dendritic spine dynamics (turnover and density).
- Measured functional plasticity through temporal frequency discrimination and identified the role of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α).
Main Results:
- Prey capture learning significantly improved temporal frequency discrimination.
- Visual learning induced widespread and persistent remodeling of visual circuitry, including increased spine turnover and altered spine density.
- This experience-dependent plasticity was specific to the critical period and absent in adult mice.
- Tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α)-dependent homeostatic plasticity was crucial for behavioral improvement.
Conclusions:
- Ethological experiences during critical periods drive significant synaptic remodeling in the visual cortex.
- Homeostatic plasticity mechanisms, involving TNF-α, are co-opted to enable this widespread rewiring.
- This remodeling supports enhanced visual function and adaptive behavior, highlighting the importance of active interaction with the environment during development.
