Aminergic neurons: state control and plasticity in three model systems

Aminergic neurons have particular functions in many systems, and in this review their role is discussed and compared in three systems: those parts of the central nervous system controlling sleep and waking in the cut; the superior cervical ganglion: and the isolated nervous system of Aplysia. In the cat the aminergic neurons are most important in a waking state during which time external information is received, processed, and can be retrieved, and during which time habituation and sensitization occur. Aminergic neurons appear to have similar roles in state control in plasticity in both the Aplysia nervous system and the superior cervical ganglion. The striking similarities in the role of aminergic neurons in these three systems support the speculation that aminergic neurons have uniquely important roles in regulation of the plastic properties of neurons.