Abstract
In the mammalian brain, cortical interneurons (INs) are a highly diverse group of cells. A key neurophysiological question concerns how each class of INs contributes to cortical circuit function and whether specific roles can be attributed to a selective cell type. To address this question, researchers are integrating knowledge derived from transcriptomic, histological, electrophysiological, developmental, and functional experiments to extensively characterise the different classes of INs. Our hope is that such knowledge permits the selective targeting of cell types for therapeutic endeavours. This review will focus on two of the main types of INs, namely the parvalbumin (PV+) or somatostatin (SOM+)-containing cells, and summarise the research to date on these classes.
Highlights
The cortex of the mammalian brain is composed of two main neuronal groups: projection neurons and interneurons (INs) [1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8]
There have been several key transcription factors identified: two of which are Nkx2.1 and Nkx6.2, produced from the Nk2 homeobox, whereas Nkx2.1 is expressed in the MGE and preoptic area (POA), and Nkx6.2 expression is limited to the dorsal aspect of the MGE [88,89] (Figure 3A)
It is unclear whether the development of specific neurochemical subtypes of PV+ and/or SOM+ IN types is accomplished by the time that SOM/PV levels reach a steady state in the neocortex or whether subtype differentiation continues until later developmental stages
Summary
The cortex of the mammalian brain is composed of two main neuronal groups: projection neurons and interneurons (INs) [1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8]. Most INs co-release neuropeptides when sufficiently activated, such as the vasoactive intestinal peptide, neuropeptide Y, or somatostatin, resulting in a sustained modulation of pyramidal cell output [9,10,11]. Due to this complexity, the mechanisms for an accurate assembly of neuron types within a given circuit to preserve its function requires both correct proportional expression of cell types and integrated synaptic compatibility. This review discusses the different INs classification schemes with a focus on parvalbumin (PV+ ) or somatostatin (SOM+ )-containing INs, discussing the developmental ontology and selective features of these specific INs
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call