Modulation of Neuronal Interactions Through Neuronal Synchronization

TLDR

Brain processing relies on interactions between neuronal groups, which are governed by anatomical connections and unknown mechanisms that modulate effective connection strength. The study proposes that the pattern of neuronal synchronization flexibly determines the pattern of neuronal interactions. Mutual influence among neuronal groups depends on the phase relationship of their rhythmic activities, with phase relations preceding interactions by a few milliseconds, indicating a mechanistic role.

Abstract

Brain processing depends on the interactions between neuronal groups. Those interactions are governed by the pattern of anatomical connections and by yet unknown mechanisms that modulate the effective strength of a given connection. We found that the mutual influence among neuronal groups depends on the phase relation between rhythmic activities within the groups. Phase relations supporting interactions between the groups preceded those interactions by a few milliseconds, consistent with a mechanistic role. These effects were specific in time, frequency, and space, and we therefore propose that the pattern of synchronization flexibly determines the pattern of neuronal interactions.