Year: 2024
Type: editorial
Abstract: At the systems level, recent pillar research into neural oscillations spans different brain areas, species, and disciplines, granting us a common ground for the disparate fields of neuroscience. In a minireview, Miles et al. 2 reviewed the articles related to "Hippocampal beta rhythms as a bridge between sensory learning and memory-guided decision-making." The authors highlight the role of beta oscillations in mediating coupling between the hippocampus and other regions involved in coordinating memory-guided behavior. This review puts forward an intriguing hypothesis extending the role of beta oscillations beyond sensory systems toward a general role of hippocampal beta in enabling inter-regional coupling for sensory-driven, cue-reward associations and for enabling memory-guided behavior.Long-term memory is achieved through a consolidation process where structural and molecular changes integrate information into a stable memory. In a review, Osorio-Gomez et al. 3 discuss "Transforming experiences: Neurobiology of memory updating/editing." It explains how longterm memory is formed and updated through a consolidation process involving structural and molecular changes. The process is dynamic, adapting to environmental changes and integrating new experiences. The article highlights the potential clinical implications of memory updating in conditions like drug addiction, phobias, and post-traumatic stress disorder.Heck et al. 4 further summarize the "Cerebellar control of thalamocortical circuits for cognitive function: A review of pathways and a proposed mechanism" in a minireview. The article explores the cerebrocerebellar interactions and cerebellothalamic pathways in cognitive and motor functions. It discusses the role of the thalamus in coordinating neuronal oscillations, indicating increased functional connectivity. The authors suggest that cerebellothalamic pathways may be crucial in coordinating neuronal communication.In a systematic review, Mowery and Garranghty 5 discuss "Adult neuroplasticity employs developmental mechanisms." It summarizes studies showing adult neural plasticity, including functional reorganization in adult rat somatosensory thalamus and primate somatosensory cortex. The article also discusses experiments revealing the physiological, morphological, and neurochemical mechanisms permitting this plasticity. It concludes that adult cells return to critical period-like plastic states under prolonged sensory deprivation.Historically, spinal cord processes were considered mere mechanical relays for signals. Recent research challenges this view, this review by Grau and colleagues 6 reveals that spinal cord mechanisms can organize behavior, alter pain processing, and infer stimulus relations. These processes resemble brain-dependent learning pathways. Spinal cord injury can induce plasticity, suggesting it plays a crucial role. Understanding spinal cord functions informs brain models and offers new treatments for spinal cord injury.Anxiety disorders are the most common class of mental illness. A wealth of data has implicated the medial prefrontal cortex in the regulation of anxiety, and norepinephrine is a crucial neuromodulator of arousal and vigilance believed to be responsible for many of the symptoms of anxiety disorders. Bouras et al. 7 reviewed "Prefrontal modulation of anxiety through a lens of noradrenergic signaling." This article details the various potential projections and mechanisms through which the medial prefrontal cortex can exert executive control over subcortical regions involved in anxiety following locus coeruleus activation with the proposed model and fascinating future directions.In the clinically relevant review, Bonin et al. 8 summarize the "Assessment and management of pain/nociception in patients with disorders of consciousness or locked-in syndrome." The authors discuss the challenges in assessing and managing pain in such patients. It highlights the need for clear guidelines and explores various topics, including the neurophysiology of pain, its impact, and treatment strategies. The review also suggests potential research directions for improving patient management.Finally, as stated in the thought-provoking and perhaps controversial hypothesis and theory summed up by Dr. Roland 9 , the debate about "How far neuroscientists are from understanding brains" remains. This article highlights the current gaps in neuroscience, particularly in understanding how neurons interact at all scales and how brains function. It points out conceptual obstacles, such as the lack of models explaining neuron interactions, ambiguity in distinguishing different types of brain activities, and the insufficiency of dynamical systems theory to account for central nervous system activities. The author suggests that spatial dynamics could be a solution and proposes a hypothesis that measurements of changes in fundamental brain variables can reveal how central nervous systems work. The author also emphasizes the need for single-trial designs and statistics, as pooling and averaging data can destroy their underlying dynamics. The hypothesis/theory presented in the article is significant but perhaps also provocative, including the critical challenges identified and potential solutions proposed by the author. Nevertheless, it may pave the way for the need for provocative thinking in neuroscience research.These articles highlight the challenges in integrating findings across scales, deciphering the brain's code, and understanding its embodiment in the world. Despite these challenges, the diverse perspectives showcased in his collection demonstrate the potential for groundbreaking discoveries in Systems Neuroscience. As we venture into the next era of Systems Neuroscience, we can anticipate even more groundbreaking discoveries and novel applications. This Research Topic serves as a testament to the vibrant and transformative nature of the field. We eagerly await pioneering research that will sharpen the future of Systems Neuroscience.Overall, the research and perspectives presented in this collection underscore the complexity and interconnectedness of the brain's systems. By pushing the boundaries of knowledge, Systems Neuroscience has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the brain and open new avenues for treating neurological and mental disorders.
Language: English
Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,295
OpenAlex ID: W4396778034