Image Source: Visual simulation with Allen Brain Explorer 2
Dr. Robert Schmidt, junior research group leader at BrainLinks-BrainTools and his colleagues from Université de Bordeaux (France) and the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor (USA) found out that the so-called arkypallidal neurons or arky neurons are involved in the process of behavioural decision making. In their recent study published in Neuron, the researchers were able to identify this neuron type and show its participation in the race between stop and go impulses.
“In a rat model we were able to produce evidence that arky neurons emit yet another stop signal to the striatum which inhibits the go signal. Since this supports the stop-signal in our race, it can be considered a decisive element in the inhibition of actions,” says Schmidt.
Arky neurons are found in the globus pallidus, a region of the basal ganglia that contributes to different processes, such as the controlling of movement. The insight into which regions are involved in the inhibition of appropriate behavior and the initiation of inappropriate behavior play an important role in understanding the control mechanisms behind pathological behavior. Robert Schmidt’s findings could therefore be of particular significance in the treatment of tic disorders, Parkinson’s disease, or ADHD.
What activates these arky neurons, however, remains to be determined by further studies. Of course, they will be conducted by Schmidt’s junior research group as well.
Original publication:
For further info please contact:
Dr. Robert Schmidt
Exzellenzcluster BrainLinks-BrainTools
Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg
Tel.: 0761/203-9546
E-Mail: robert.schmidt(at)brainlinks-braintools.uni-freiburg.de
Levin Sottru
Science Communicator
Exzellenzcluster BrainLinks-BrainTools
Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg
Tel.: 0761/203-67721
E-Mail: levin.sottru(at)brainlinks-braintools.uni-freiburg.de