Electrophysiology, field potentials and the study of synaptic plasticity

Abstract

Electrophysiology developed to constitute a tool for clinical and experimental Neurociences. The study of field potentials allows the investigation of the functional properties of neuronal populations and their relationship to neural processes or mental states. Monosynaptic evoked potentials in the hippocampus is a widely-used method, due mainly to its simplicity and low technical requirements, allowing however statements and interpretations at cellular level, especially in relation to modifications in synaptic efficacy. Synaptic plasticity is one of the mechanisms that allow the adaptive properties of the Nervous System. Our group at CIREN have studied the links between neural plasticity and affective factors, and developed a model based on the synaptic tagging theory to explain those interactions. New investigations suggest a role for neurotrophines and plasticity related genes in the restoration of memory functions by stimulation of the amygdala, in rats affected by lesions of the fimbria–fornix system. We are currently searching for strategies to apply these mechanisms in clinical practice.