How inhibition shapes cortical activity

Neuron. 2011 Oct 20;72(2):231-43. doi: 10.1016/j.neuron.2011.09.027.

Abstract

Cortical processing reflects the interplay of synaptic excitation and synaptic inhibition. Rapidly accumulating evidence is highlighting the crucial role of inhibition in shaping spontaneous and sensory-evoked cortical activity and thus underscores how a better knowledge of inhibitory circuits is necessary for our understanding of cortical function. We discuss current views of how inhibition regulates the function of cortical neurons and point to a number of important open questions.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cerebral Cortex / physiology*
  • Membrane Potentials / physiology
  • Nerve Net / physiology*
  • Neural Inhibition / physiology*
  • Neurons / physiology*
  • Synaptic Transmission / physiology