Network Activity of “Interneurons” and Large Cells in the Amygdala in Active and Passive Rabbits

Abstract

Cross-correlation histogram studies demonstrated differences in the interactions of presumptive small “interneurons” and large principal cells in the central and basal nuclei of the amygdala in rabbits in emotionally negative situations. “Interneurons” displayed greater network activity than principal cells. “Interneurons” more frequently had input and output excitatory and inhibitory connections with neighboring neurons, and the latencies of their connections with other cells were shorter, than in the case of principal cells. Interactions between “interneurons” and principal cells in emotionally negative situations differed in animals with active and passive behavioral strategies. In passive rabbits, there were more inhibitory connections with “interneurons” from any other cells than in active animals, while passive animals showed fewer excitatory and inhibitory connections from “interneurons” to principal cells.