The plasticity of inhibitory synapses as a factor of long-term modifications

Abstract

We review the current data on the functions of GABAergic inhibition in the mechanisms of long-term plasticity that underlie learning and memory. We present the main principles of the organization of the inhibitory inputs and molecular composition of synapses. So-called “ionic plasticity” is a specific feature of the inhibitory synapses. The range of ionic plasticity that is associated with the depolarizing effect of GABA is of particular interest. In adult animals, this effect is observed after high-frequency stimulation of synaptic inputs. The main attention was focused on the reaction of disinhibition in the hippocampus that is induced by high-frequency stimulation of the afferent inputs that are used for LTP induction. We argue that the disinhibition effect is crucially important for more effective consolidation of long-term modifications, including structural plasticity.