Local field potential data analysis in vivo: Deciphering functional astrocyte-neuron networks

Abstract

Recent hippocampal studies have shown that interneuron activity induces both fast synaptic inhibition and recruitment of astrocytic signaling, causing glutamate release by astrocytes and unexpected synaptic potentiation of excitation. Preliminary results from the lab indicate the existence of GABAergic activation of astrocytes in medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). To further study the dynamic properties of neuroglial networks in mPFC, local field potential (LFP) signals were recorded in adult wildtype mice (GbWT), and adult mice after viral transfection to prevent receptors expression specifically on mPFC astrocytes (GbKO). LFP data was recorded during T-maze behavioral task to evaluate decision making. We have found that ablation of receptors in mPFC astrocytes causes the disruption of the characteristic increase on gamma power observed in GbWT during successful choices as well as the deletion of phase-amplitude coupling (PAC) of gamma oscillations with theta band. Furthermore, GbKO mice show a decrease on the number neurons significantly phase-locked to gamma oscillations. Lastly, GbKO mice present diminished decision making and learning capabilities during behavioral tasks. Therefore, interneuron-astrocytic GABAergic-mediated signaling is crucial both for the correct formation and maintenance of brain rhythmic oscillations and for cognitive capabilities.