[Seminar] "Why presynaptic inhibition?" by Henning Sprekeler

Speaker

Henning Sprekeler, Technische Universität Berlin

Title

"Why presynaptic inhibition?"

Abstract

Inhibition plays a central role in the nervous system. Most inhibitory effects are mediated by inhibitory synapses that reduce the activity of postsynaptic cells. However, inhibitory receptors are also found in many presynaptic axon terminals, where they can control synaptic release very effectively. These receptors can be activated by spill-over from nearby synapses or via non-synaptic “volume release” of inhibitory neurotransmitters into extracellular space. This effect has been known for a long time, but its computational function is not clear.

I will present three potential functions of presynaptic inhibition that we studied in computational models. Firstly, presynaptic inhibition can be very effective at controlling population activity on a fast time scale and can thereby complement homeostatic mechanisms in the presence of plasticity. Secondly, I will show how presynaptic inhibition enables a dynamic readout of a temporal neural code by allowing synapses to dynamically shift from transmitting primarily individual spikes to primarily transmitting bursts of action potentials. Finally, I will argue that presynaptic inhibition by volume-releasing NDNF interneurons in superficial cortical layers can mediate a layer-specific control of cortical circuits. 

This seminar will also be broadcast online via Zoom: *No recording.

Meeting ID: 949 4090 6345
Passcode: 938225

Target audience: Students and Researchers interested in the field
Freely accessible to all OIST members and guests without registration.