Cortical sensory maps are important for perceptual learning. Cortical inhibition has an important role in the formation, maintenance and adaptability of these maps. We hypothesize that long-term potentiation (LTP) of thalamocortical synapses onto inhibitory neurons is important for the refinement of sensory maps.
Specific Aim 1 :
The first aim of this study is to determine if LTP can be elicited at thalamocortical synapses onto inhibitory neurons.
Specific Aim 2 :
The aim of this experiment is to determine if LTP is dependent on NMDA receptors, calcium-permeable AMPA receptors, metabotropic glutamate receptors or L-type voltage dependent calcium channels, using selective receptor antagonists.
Specific Aim 3 :
The aim of this expedment is to determine if LTP of thalamic inputs onto inhibitory neurons is dependent on a critical period. The results of this project will increase our understanding of the mechanisms involve in perceptual learning.
| Mateo, Z; Porter, J T (2015) Developmental decline in modulation of glutamatergic synapses in layer IV of the barrel cortex by group II metabotropic glutamate receptors. Neuroscience 290:41-8 |
| Mateo, Z; Porter, J T (2007) Group II metabotropic glutamate receptors inhibit glutamate release at thalamocortical synapses in the developing somatosensory cortex. Neuroscience 146:1062-72 |
