Work

Beyond excitatory neurons: How inhibitory neurons and astrocytes shape fMRI spatiotemporal dynamics

Year: 2026

Type: editorial

Abstract: fMRI signals arise from interactions among multiple cell types, complicating their interpretation. While excitatory neurons are often considered primary drivers, inhibitory neurons and astrocytes also modulate hemodynamic responses but remain less explored. We show that somatostatin-expressing (SST) inhibitory neurons generate delayed fMRI signals via an SST-astrocyte pathway. These responses were slower, broader, and localized to cortical input layers, providing a cellular basis for laminar-specific fMRI. Our findings reveal a critical role for inhibitory neurons and astrocytes in shaping fMRI dynamics and emphasize the need for a network-level framework to interpret high-resolution fMRI.

Source: Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism

DOI: 10.1177/0271678x261417892

Authors: Thanh Tan Vo, Seong-Gi Kim

Institutions: Institute for Basic Science, Sungkyunkwan University

Language: English

Topic: Advanced MRI Techniques and Applications

Subfield: Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funder: Institute for Basic Science