Plasticity is one of the most important properties of the nervous system. It encompasses both synaptic and cellular changes that lead to neuronal circuit modifications on multiple timescales. Synaptic and cellular plasticity are classically characterized as dependent on pre- and post-synaptic activity patterns but it is clear that the presence of neuromodulators such as acetylcholine, dopamine, noradrenaline, serotonin or histamine perform a crucial role in regulating the induction and maintenance of plasticity. This field has benefited greatly from theoretical work demonstrating the importance of network plasticity for behavior as well as recent advances in our ability to manipulate and measure neuromodulatory systems by selective genetic targeting. These advances provide an opportunity to re-evaluate concepts surrounding the role of neuromodulators in plasticity and behavior.
In this research topic we aim to explore how neuromodulator release, and the behavioral states that determine it, regulate plasticity of neuronal circuits. This includes synaptic, intrinsic and circuit plasticity in experimental and theoretical systems that contribute to learned behaviors.
Plasticity is one of the most important properties of the nervous system. It encompasses both synaptic and cellular changes that lead to neuronal circuit modifications on multiple timescales. Synaptic and cellular plasticity are classically characterized as dependent on pre- and post-synaptic activity patterns but it is clear that the presence of neuromodulators such as acetylcholine, dopamine, noradrenaline, serotonin or histamine perform a crucial role in regulating the induction and maintenance of plasticity. This field has benefited greatly from theoretical work demonstrating the importance of network plasticity for behavior as well as recent advances in our ability to manipulate and measure neuromodulatory systems by selective genetic targeting. These advances provide an opportunity to re-evaluate concepts surrounding the role of neuromodulators in plasticity and behavior.
In this research topic we aim to explore how neuromodulator release, and the behavioral states that determine it, regulate plasticity of neuronal circuits. This includes synaptic, intrinsic and circuit plasticity in experimental and theoretical systems that contribute to learned behaviors.
