Precisely localized LTD in the neocortex revealed by infrared-guided laser stimulation.
basic_science · Level V
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Abstract
In a direct approach to elucidate the origin of long-term depression (LTD), glutamate was applied onto dendrites of neurons in rat neocortical slices. An infrared-guided laser stimulation was used to release glutamate from caged glutamate in the focal spot of an ultraviolet laser. A burst of light flashes caused an LTD-like depression of glutamate receptor responses, which was highly confined to the region of "tetanic" stimulation (<10 micrometers). A similar depression of glutamate receptor responses was observed during LTD of synaptic transmission. A spatially highly specific postsynaptic mechanism can account for the LTD induced by glutamate release.
Medical subject headings
- Neocortex
- Neuronal Plasticity
- Pyramidal Cells
- Receptors, Glutamate
- Synapses
- Synaptic Transmission