Functional interactions between hippocampal sharp-wave ripple and cerebellar Purkinje cell activity

Functional interactions between hippocampal sharp-wave ripple (SWR) activity and cerebellar Purkinje cell activity represent a critical area of study in the field of neuroscience. The hippocampus, known for its role in memory formation and spatial navigation, generates SWRs predominantly within the CA1 region. These high-frequency oscillations are believed to be pivotal in memory consolidation and information transfer, particularly during periods of rest and sleep. In contrast, the cerebellum, home to principal Purkinje neurons in the cerebellar cortex, is primarily associated with various forms of motor coordination. Additionally, the cerebellum has been increasingly recognized for its involvement in non-motor cognitive functions. Despite extensive individual research on hippocampal SWRs and cerebellar Purkinje cells, their direct functional interaction remains relatively elusive. Unraveling the neural mechanisms linking these two brain regions is crucial for understanding the development of memory deficits and related cognitive disorders and exploring potential therapeutic interventions.

This Research Topic aims to distribute experimental, theoretical, and modeling studies that broaden our comprehension of how the hippocampus and cerebellum collaboratively contribute to temporal coordination, cognitive functions, and memory processing across various states, such as sleeping, resting, and related behavioral conditions. Specific questions to be addressed include: How do SWRs influence Purkinje cell activity? What are the underlying neural circuits facilitating this interaction? Can disruptions in these interactions lead to cognitive impairments? By addressing these questions, the research aims to elucidate the broader implications of hippocampal-cerebellar communication in both health and disease.

To gather further insights into the functional interactions between hippocampal SWRs and cerebellar Purkinje cell activity, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Neural mechanisms linking hippocampal SWRs and cerebellar Purkinje cells

- The role of SWRs in modulating cerebellar activity during different behavioral states

- Computational models of hippocampal-cerebellar interactions

- Experimental studies on the impact of disrupted hippocampal-cerebellar communication on cognitive functions

- Cross-regional communication and its implications for memory consolidation and motor coordination

- Comparative studies involving human subjects and animal models

- Interdisciplinary approaches combining neurophysiology, computational neuroscience, and behavioral analysis

Keywords: hippocampus, cerebellum, non-motor cognitive functions, motor coordination, functional interactions, cerebellar Purkinje cell

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