Homotypic synaptic coupling and the cellular bases of gamma oscillatory activity.

Abstract

Although the importance of gamma oscillatory activity in brain function is well established, the exact contributions of neuron and synapse type remains unclear. In their study, Hu and Agmon (J Neurophysiol 114: 624-637, 2015) show that precision as well as firing rate dependence of gamma synchrony rely primarily on cellular coupling type (chemical, electrical, or dual), rather than properties intrinsic to cell type. These findings are discussed with a focus on current ramifications and the implications for future research.