Synaptic plasticity in sensory learning

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ABSTRACT Experience-dependent plasticity is a canonical feature of the neocortex, observed in both sensory and motor learning as well as more sophisticated cognitive operations such as working memory. The remarkable conservation of cell types and synaptic connectivity across brain areas suggests that there may be general principles by which neocortical circuits facilitate experience-dependent synaptic modifications relevant for learning. We will test the hypothesis that exposure to novel and rewarded sensory inputs initiates a common program of cell-type and input-specific plasticity across the cortical column, irrespective of whether these changes are required for behavioral change. These collaborative studies will address and resolve important controversies in the field of learning.