Spatial and Temporal Scales of Neuronal Correlation in Primary Visual Cortex

• DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2929-08.2008
• Publication Date: 2008-11-26T18:29:23Z
• Authors: Matthew A. Smith; Adam Kohn
• Keywords: Premovement neuronal activity; Spatial frequency

The spiking activity of cortical neurons is correlated. For instance, trial-to-trial fluctuations in response strength are shared between neurons, and spikes often occur synchronously. Understanding the properties mechanisms that generate these forms correlation critical for determining their role processing. We therefore investigated spatial extent functional specificity correlated spontaneous evoked activity. Because feedforward, recurrent, feedback pathways have distinct extents specificity, we reasoned measurements could elucidate contribution each type input. recorded single unit with microelectrode arrays which allowed us to measure many hundreds pairings, across a large range scales. Our data show generated by two link similar orientation preferences on different scales: one high temporal precision limited (∼3 mm), second gives rise slow time scale extends as far were able (10 mm). former consistent common input provided horizontal connections; latter likely involves from extrastriate cortex. Spontaneous was over extent, but approximately twice strongly Visual stimuli thus caused substantial decrease correlation, particularly at onset. These circuit mechanism they imply provide new constraints may play visual