Excitatory and inhibitory connections show selectivity in the neocortex

J Physiol. 2005 Jan 1;562(Pt 1):89-97. doi: 10.1113/jphysiol.2004.076984. Epub 2004 Nov 11.

Abstract

The cerebral cortex is pivotal in information processing and higher brain function and its laminar structure of six distinct layers, each in receipt of a different constellation of inputs, makes it important to identify connectivity patterns and distinctions between excitatory and inhibitory pathways. The 'feedforward' projections from layer 4-3 and from 3-5 target pyramidal cells and to lesser degrees interneurones. 'Feedback' projections from layer 5-3 and from 3-4, on the other hand, mainly target interneurones. Understanding the microcircuitry may give some insight into the computation and information processing performed in this brain region.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Hippocampus / cytology
  • Hippocampus / physiology
  • Humans
  • Neocortex / cytology
  • Neocortex / physiology*
  • Neural Pathways / physiology*
  • Neurons / physiology*
  • Pyramidal Cells / physiology