AUTHOR=Zerlaut Yann , Tzilivaki Alexandra 

TITLE=Interneuronal modulations as a functional switch for cortical computations: mechanisms and implication for disease

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience

VOLUME=Volume 18 - 2024

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/cellular-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fncel.2024.1479579

DOI=10.3389/fncel.2024.1479579

ISSN=1662-5102

ABSTRACT=Understanding cortical inhibition and its diverse roles remains a key challenge in neurophysiological research. Traditionally, inhibition has been recognized for controlling the stability and rhythmicity of network dynamics, or refining the spatiotemporal properties of cortical representations. In this perspective, we propose that specific types of interneurons may play a complementary role, by modulating the computational properties of neural networks. We review experimental and theoretical evidence, mainly from rodent sensory cortices, that supports this view. Additionally, we explore how dysfunctions in these interneurons may disrupt the network’s ability to switch between computational modes, impacting the flexibility of cortical processing and potentially contributing to various neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders.