Dendritic integration in hippocampal pyramidal neurons

In the hippocampus, sensory information is integrated to provide a contextual map of experience with a strong spatial component. In addition, the hippocampus is a crucial structure for the formation of new declarative memories (including spatial memory). In my laboratory, we study the cellular processes that allow hippocampal neurons to carry out these functions and to change their as a function as a consequence of experience.

Research in my lab focuses on the excitable properties of CA1 dendrites and their role in synaptic integration. Dendritic excitability is likely to be a central factor in the process of synaptic integration, as well as in mediating activity-dependent plasticity that may be responsible for the function of the hippocampus during learning.

e-mail Dr. Spruston
ph: 847.467.2734
fax: 847.491.5211

Selected References:

• Metz A, Jarsky T, Martina M, Spruston N. (2005) R-type calcium channels produce an afterdepolarization and bursting in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons. Journal of Neuroscience, 25:5763-5773.

• Cooper DC, Chung S, Spruston N. (2005) Output-mode transitions controlled by prolonged inactivation of sodium channels in pyramidal neurons of subiculum. PLoS Biology, 3(6):1123-1129.

• Golding N, Staff NP, Spruston N. (2002) Dendritic spikes as a mechanism for cooperative long-term potentiation. Nature, 418:326-331.

• Golding NL, Spruston N. (2001) Dichotomy of action potential backpropagation in CA1 pyramidal neurons, Journal of Neurophysiology 86:2998-3010.

• Jung H, Staff NP, Spruston N. (2001) Action potential bursting in subicularpyramidal neurons, Journal of Neuroscience 21:3312-3321.

• Häusser M, Spruston N, Stuart G. (2000) Diversity and dynamics of dendritic signaling. Science, 290:739-744.

Other Links:

• Spruston lab home page

• Dendrites: Co-edited by Dr. Spruston