Integration of signals at the level of single neurons
An important fuction of brain neurons is to integrate synaptic signals, and to transform them into distinct programmes of electric discharge at high frequencies, often of rhythmic pattern. This action is susceptible to modulation by chemicals released by surrounding neurons in the same area. To clarify the basic mechanism underlying these phenomena, electrophysiological recordings from brainstem motoneurons are used. In particular, we are investigating the relative contribution of synaptic inhibition mediated by GABA and/or glycine, of glutamate mediated synaptic excitation, and of voltage-dependent intrinsic conductances. Patch clamp, intracellular and extracellular recording techniques are currently employed to understand the basic mechanisms of repeated electrical oscillations produced by brain neurons in health and neurodegenerative disease models. !asasa
