The Structure, Dynamics and Function of Neural Micro-Circuits for Perception and Behavior

About this Research Topic

Background

The cerebral cortex is the area of the brain most associated with perception, thoughts, decisions, and the initiation of voluntary behavior. How the neocortex and related brain regions accomplish these tasks remains a fundamental question in neuroscience.

To elucidate the biological processes underlying cortical function, researchers have cataloged a diversity of specialized neuron subpopulations defined by their morphological, physiological, and/or genetic properties. More recently, advances in physiological and imaging methodologies have revealed exquisite specificity in the synaptic connections that organize these heterogeneous populations into local and long-distance circuits. Further, advanced genetic tools now allow for selective manipulation and monitoring of these circuits in vivo to determine their contribution to specific behaviors.

This Research Topic aims to disseminate recent advances in our understanding of the structure and function of neural circuits, with a focus on the neocortex and other brain areas involved in cognition. We invite Original Research studies, Review articles, and theoretical Perspectives regarding all aspects of neural circuity, including, but not limited to:
a) neurodevelopment and synapse formation
b) neuron diversity and classification
c) selectivity in local and long-distance synaptic circuits
d) plasticity and neuromodulation of neural circuits
e) functions of neural circuits in behavior and circuit changes that contribute to pathological states
g) technological advances for studying neural circuits

We welcome all levels of biological analyses, from ultrastructure of the neocortex to circuit-level analyses of behavior, as revealed in computational studies, animal model systems, or humans.

The Research Topic is connected to the Eighth International Neural Microcircuit Conference "Synaptic Specificity to Circuit Dynamics" which takes place January 29th-31st, 2020 in Nagano, Japan.

Cover image legend: LSM image of layer 1 of mouse motor cortex M1 showing VGluT1 (Red), pyramidal cell terminal marker; VGluT2 (Blue), Thalamo-cortical terminal marker; Homer1 (Yellow), Excitatory post synapse marker and tuft dendrite (Green) of layer 5 pyramidal cell.

Keywords: Neocortex, synapse, neural networks, cognition, neuromodulation

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