Network homeostasis: a matter of coordination

Curr Opin Neurobiol. 2009 Apr;19(2):168-73. doi: 10.1016/j.conb.2009.05.012. Epub 2009 Jun 18.

Abstract

Brain circuits undergo distributed rearrangements throughout life: development, experience and behavior constantly modify synaptic strength and network connectivity. Despite these changes, neurons and circuits need to preserve their functional stability. Single neurons maintain their spontaneous firing rate within functional working ranges by regulating the efficacy of their synaptic inputs. But how do networks maintain a stable behavior? Is network homeostasis a consequence of cell autonomous mechanisms? In this article we will review recent evidence showing that network homeostasis is more than the sum of single-neuron homeostasis and that high-order network stability can be achieved by coordinated inter-cellular interactions.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain / physiology*
  • Homeostasis
  • Neural Pathways / physiology
  • Neuronal Plasticity / physiology
  • Neurons / physiology*
  • Pyramidal Cells / physiology
  • Synapses / physiology