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Columnar architecture improves noise robustness in a model cortical network.

ABSTRACT: Cortical columnar architecture was discovered decades ago yet there is no agreed upon explanation for its function. Indeed, some have suggested that it has no function, it is simply an epiphenomenon of developmental processes. To investigate this problem we have constructed a computer model of one square millimeter of layer 2/3 of the primary visual cortex (V1) of the cat. Model cells are connected according to data from recent paired cell studies, in particular the connection probability between pyramidal cells is inversely proportional both to the distance separating the cells and to the distance between the preferred parameters (features) of the cells. We find that these constraints, together with a columnar architecture, produce more tightly clustered populations of cells when compared to the random architecture seen in, for example, rodents. This causes the columnar network to converge more quickly and accurately on the pattern representing a particular stimulus in the presence of noise, suggesting that columnar connectivity functions to improve pattern recognition in cortical circuits. The model also suggests that synaptic failure, a phenomenon exhibited by weak synapses, may conserve metabolic resources by reducing transmitter release at these connections that do not contribute to network function.

SUBMITTER: Bush PC

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4364615 | biostudies-literature | 2015

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Columnar architecture improves noise robustness in a model cortical network.

Bush Paul C PC Mainen Zachary F ZF

PloS one 20150317 3

Cortical columnar architecture was discovered decades ago yet there is no agreed upon explanation for its function. Indeed, some have suggested that it has no function, it is simply an epiphenomenon of developmental processes. To investigate this problem we have constructed a computer model of one square millimeter of layer 2/3 of the primary visual cortex (V1) of the cat. Model cells are connected according to data from recent paired cell studies, in particular the connection probability betwee ...[more]

PMID: 25781314

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Project description:BackgroundCladribine is a synthetic purine analogue that interferes with DNA synthesis and repair next to disrupting cellular proliferation in actively dividing lymphocytes. The compound is approved for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). Cladribine can cross the blood-brain barrier, suggesting a potential effect on central nervous system (CNS) resident cells. Here, we explored compartment-specific immunosuppressive as well as potential direct neuroprotective effects of oral cladribine treatment in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mice.MethodsIn the current study, we compare immune cell frequencies and phenotypes in the periphery and CNS of EAE mice with distinct grey and white matter lesions (combined active and focal EAE) either orally treated with cladribine or vehicle, using flow cytometry. To evaluate potential direct neuroprotective effects, we assessed the integrity of the primary auditory cortex neuronal network by studying neuronal activity and spontaneous synaptic activity with electrophysiological techniques ex vivo.ResultsOral cladribine treatment significantly attenuated clinical deficits in EAE mice. Ex vivo flow cytometry showed that cladribine administration led to peripheral immune cell depletion in a compartment-specific manner and reduced immune cell infiltration into the CNS. Histological evaluations revealed no significant differences for inflammatory lesion load following cladribine treatment compared to vehicle control. Single cell electrophysiology in acute brain slices was performed and showed an impact of cladribine treatment on intrinsic cellular firing patterns and spontaneous synaptic transmission in neurons of the primary auditory cortex. Here, cladribine administration in vivo partially restored cortical neuronal network function, reducing action potential firing. Both, the effect on immune cells and neuronal activity were transient.ConclusionsOur results indicate that cladribine exerts a neuroprotective effect after crossing the blood-brain barrier independently of its peripheral immunosuppressant action.

Dataset Information

Columnar architecture improves noise robustness in a model cortical network.

Publications

Columnar architecture improves noise robustness in a model cortical network.

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