A plausible neural circuit for classical conditioning without synaptic plasticity.

AUTOR(ES)

Tesauro, G

RESUMO

The cellular bases of learning are currently under active investigation by both experimental and theoretical means. In this paper, a simple neuronal wiring diagram is proposed that can reproduce both simple and higher-order behavioral paradigms seen in invertebrate classical conditioning experiments. Learning in this model does not take place by modification of synaptic strength values. Instead, the model uses a layer of interneurons with modifiable thresholds for spike initiation, as suggested by the plasticity mechanisms thought to operate in Hermissenda [Alkon, D. L. (1983) Sci. Am. 249, 70-84]. The model therefore has an advantage in plausibility compared with more standard models using Hebb synapses or their functional equivalents, which have not yet been demonstrated in any invertebrate organism.

Documentos Relacionados

• Endothelial nitric oxide synthase localized to hippocampal pyramidal cells: implications for synaptic plasticity.
• Rapid recovery of function after partial denervation of the rat pineal gland suggests a novel mechanism for neural plasticity.
• BOOK REVIEWS: Understanding Neuromuscular Plasticity. A basis for clinical rehabilitation.
• Learning and receptive field plasticity.
• A more biologically plausible learning rule for neural networks.