Topic: L2/3 excitatory neurons

Recent experiments have revealed that visual cortex operates as an inhibition-stabilized network (ISN), in which unstable excitatory coupling is balanced by strong inhibition. Computational models like the stabilized supralinear network (SSN) describe the mechanisms behind this regime, and also postulate that a transition occurs from non-ISN to ISN dynamics with increasing visual input. However, while some studies find input-dependent effects that support a shift in dynamical regime, others have shown ISN-like dynamics in the spontaneous state, leaving open questions about the existence and na

Animals exhibit flexible and adaptive behavior in novel situations, in part relying on reward-based learning. Although the reinforcement of positive outcomes plays a central role in shaping behavior, the neural circuit mechanisms of goal-directed sensorimotor transformation remain incompletely understood. Common behavioral paradigms for studying such mechanisms are hindered by the prolonged training period needed to reach expert performance, impeding the real-time observation of plastic changes. Here, we developed a rapid whisker-based detection task where thirsty mice learn to associate a nov