Evidence for synaptic potentiation in a cortical network during learning

摘要: Abstract The connections between the lateral olfactory tract (LOT) and layer I of piriform cortex were used to test idea that certain forms learning involve potentiation cortical synapses. Rats trained on a series two-odor discriminations over period several days after which patterned electrical stimulation (short, high frequency bursts with 5–6 per second) LOT was as discriminative cue. animals reacted though it an odor quickly learned respond appropriately distinguish ‘positive’ ‘negative’ electrodes. Comparisons monosynaptic responses in evoked by single pulse before revealed population synaptic substantially potentiated training. This effect present unchanged form 24 h later. Responses elicited control stimulating electrodes slightly or not at all affected training another electrode. Synaptic found small group rats did learn also absent when applied naive rats. These results provide evidence rapid specific cue potentiates synapses defined terminal field.