The 'functional connection' of neurones in relation to behavioural states in rats

In order to investigate whether dynamics of neuronal networks change during differing behavioural states, the 'functional connection' between neurones in the rat vibrissal sensorimotor system during two different behavioural states (active vs passive whiskering) were revealed using time-dependent scatter diagrams. The functional connection between neurones in the vibrissal motor (MCx) and sensory (SCx) cortices and the superior colliculus (SC) changed depending on the behavioural state. In the rat vibrissal system, the pattern of correlated activities among neurones in the MCx, SCx and SC may play an important role in determining behaviour.