The representation of taste quality in the mammalian nervous system.
The representation of taste quality in the mammalian nervous system.
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DOI：
10.1177/1534582305280031
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发表时间：
2005-09-01
期刊：
影响因子：
--
通讯作者：
Travers, Susan P
中科院分区：
文献类型：
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作者：
Spector, Alan C;Travers, Susan P
哺乳动物的神经系统是通过什么样的过程来表现一种味觉刺激的特征，从而导致对味觉质量的感知，这一过程长期以来一直存在争议。标记线（稀疏编码）观点与跨神经元模式（整体）观点不同，它认为给定类别的神经元的活动对于产生特定的味觉是必要的和足够的。本文批判性地回顾了分子，电生理和行为的研究结果，承担的问题。在外周味觉系统中，作者得出结论，大多数质量似乎是由标记线发出的信号;然而，这两种类型的编码元素都表征了钠盐的信号。由于大脑中神经元调谐功能的异质性，中枢编码机制尚不清楚。稀疏编码和神经元集成模型仍然是可行的可能性。此外，放电的时间模式可以提供更多的信息。最后，除非能够有选择地操纵特定类别的神经元，并评估感知结果，否则很难超越单纯的相关性，并最终辨别这些编码模型的有效性。
The process by which the mammalian nervous system represents the features of a sapid stimulus that lead to a perception of taste quality has long been controversial. The labeled-line (sparse coding) view differs from the across-neuron pattern (ensemble) counterpoint in proposing that activity in a given class of neurons is necessary and sufficient to generate a specific taste perception. This article critically reviews molecular, electro-physiological, and behavioral findings that bear on the issue. In the peripheral gustatory system, the authors conclude that most qualities appear to be signaled by labeled lines; however, elements of both types of coding characterize signaling of sodium salts. Given the heterogeneity of neuronal tuning functions in the brain, the central coding mechanism is less clear. Both sparse coding and neuronal ensemble models remain viable possibilities. Furthermore, temporal patterns of discharge could contribute additional information. Ultimately, until specific classes of neurons can be selectively manipulated and perceptual consequences assessed, it will be difficult to go beyond mere correlation and conclusively discern the validity of these coding models.