ELSC Seminar Series

The design of neural circuits, with large numbers of neurons interconnected in vast networks, strongly suggest that they are specifically build to generate emergent functional properties [1]. To explore this hypothesis, we have developed two-photon holographic methods to selective image and manipulate the activity of neuronal populations in 3D in vivo [2]. Using them we find that groups of synchronous neurons (neuronal ensembles) dominate the evoked and spontaneous activity of mouse primary visual cortex [3]. Ensembles can be optogenetically imprinted for several days and some of their neurons trigger the entire ensemble [4]. By activating these pattern completion cells in ensembles involved in visual discrimination paradigms, we can bi-directionally control behavioral choices [5].  Our results suggest that neuronal ensembles are functional building blocks of cortical circuits and can implement perceptual states [6].