Teams at the VU Amsterdam, EPFL and Hebrew University of Jerusalem achieve next step in disentangling the neuronal circuitry in human neocortex.
Synopsis:
We used our database of digital reconstructions from human neocortex L2/L3 pyramidal neurons to address the question whether pyramidal subtypes exist that can be subclassified based on morphology. Using a newly developed algorithm by Lida Kanari (EPFL, Blue Brain Project), we show that we can reliably distinguish profuse-tufted pyramids from slim-tufted pyramids, based on morphological complexity of the apical dendrite. These structural differences translate into functional properties, since profuse-tufted pyramids have increased activity upon current injections relative to slim-tufted pyramids. Thus, our morpho-electrotonic analysis shows 2 distinct classes of human Layer 2/Layer 3 pyramids.
Credits:
Illustration by Nicolas Antille, Blue Brain Project, EPFL.