By studying the visual system of mice in their first week of life, the researchers discovered that the number of inhibitory neurons depends on the degree of visual activity, said Thursday the University of Geneva in a press release. These inhibitors ensure the balance of brain activity. The results of this study led by Professor Denis Jabaudon were published in the journal “Neuron”.
These cells give a signal to avoid electrical overheating of the system or on the contrary to keep a constant signal in the event of a drop in visual activity. Researchers’ conclusion: the cellular composition of brain circuits is more plastic than previously thought and is determined by neuronal activity.
Denis Jabaudon recently received the 2014 Pfizer Research Prize for his advances in Parkinson’s disease.
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