Neural Basis of Behavioral Flexibility

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DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Behavior is determined not only by stimuli but also by internal states of those behavior generating networks that function as sensory motor-integrators. An important type of network state is an experience-dependent state that relies on the memory of recent experiences. Consequently, to generate responses, networks integrate both current stimuli and memories of recent experiences that are expressed as network states. We propose to study how experience dependent states are generated, expressed, and integrated with stimuli that impinge on the network. Towards this purpose, we will use a well characterized preparation that generates ingestive and egestive responses. We will use a multidisciplinary approach that combines electrophysiological, biochemical and cell-biological techniques. Repetitive stimulation of an input that elicits egestive responses establishes a network state that is manifested in repetition priming, i.e., a progressive increase of egestiveness of the response. Importantly, in the aftermath of repetitive stimulation of egestive inputs, a task switch cost is observed, i.e., stimulation of an ingestive input now elicits egestive rather than ingestive responses. The fact that the same network state has two different manifestations has made it possible to dissociate the functions of network states and network connectivity. Based on a series of recent findings, we propose that the EN- stimulation dependent network state is not implemented through recruitment of a singular set of specialized neurons but instead emerges as a result of the parallel peptidergic modulation of the excitability of several neurons that play a critical role in expressing various manifestations of network states. However, network states are not the sole determinant of responses. We propose that the specificity of responses that networks generate in different states depends not only on the momentary state of the network but also on the characteristics of neuronal connections within the network. Finally, we suggest that the mnemonic component of network states, i.e., persistent modification of neuronal excitability is mediated by peptidergic activation of specific second messenger systems whose role we propose to test. Various forms of pathology of initiation and repetition of movements are observed in Parkinsons disease, autistic children, and are also induced as a result of brain lesions. Thus, it may be hoped that understanding the mechanisms of the phenomena that we propose to study may a novel perspective on these disorders.