ATP-Dependent Infra-Slow (<0.1 Hz) Oscillations in Thalamic Networks

Abstract

An increasing number of EEG and resting state fMRI studies in both humans and animals indicate that spontaneous low frequency fluctuations in cerebral activity at <0.1 Hz (infra-slow oscillations, ISOs) represent a fundamental component of brain functioning, being known to correlate with faster neuronal ensemble oscillations, regulate behavioural performance and influence seizure susceptibility. Although these oscillations have been commonly indicated to involve the thalamus their basic cellular mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here we show that various nuclei in the dorsal thalamus in vitro can express a robust ISO at ∼0.005–0.1 Hz that is greatly facilitated by activating metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) and/or Ach receptors (AchRs). This ISO is a neuronal population phenomenon which modulates faster gap junction (GJ)-dependent network oscillations, and can underlie epileptic activity when AchRs or mGluRs are stimulated excessively. In individual thalamocortical neurons the ISO is primarily shaped by rhythmic, long-lasting hyperpolarizing potentials which reflect the activation of A1 receptors, by ATP-derived adenosine, and subsequent opening of Ba2+-sensitive K+ channels. We argue that this ISO has a likely non-neuronal origin and may contribute to shaping ISOs in the intact brain.

Rhythmic alternating patterns of brain activity distinguish rapid eye movement sleep from other states of consciousness

“…The monoamines (norepinephrine and serotonin) and acetylcholine each have independent modulatory effects on naturally occurring slow oscillations within the CNS (23)(24)(25)(26). During WAKE and SWS, these systems are all active to some degree, and their independent, uncoordinated effects may be reflected in the broadly asynchronous fluctuations seen during these states.…”

Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback in Depression: Three case studies

“…Recent studies report on the role of infra-slow cortical potential oscillations in the modulation of conventional frequency bands (Lörincz, Geall, Bao, Crunelli, & Hughes, 2009;van Putten et al, 2015). Therefore, modulation of these infra-slow oscillations during ILF NF sessions could exert a modulating and normalizing influence on EEG bands in depressed individuals participated in our study.…”

Integrated Brain Circuits: Neuron-Astrocyte Interaction in Sleep-Related Rhythmogenesis

“…In this context, it is interesting to note that Hughes and colleagues demonstrated that infra-slow oscillations, a particular network rhythm at <0.1 Hz recorded in thalamic slices, can be induced by the application of acetylcholine and metabotropic glutamate receptor agonists, and depends on the activation of adenosine A1 receptors[112]. The adenosine modulating the infra-slow oscillations derives from the hydrolysis of ATP and activates Ba 2+ -sensitive K + channels.…”

“…The adenosine modulating the infra-slow oscillations derives from the hydrolysis of ATP and activates Ba 2+ -sensitive K + channels. Although direct experimental evidence was not provided in that study, the authors suggest that thalamic astrocytes could represent the major source of the ATP/adenosine regulating the infra-slow oscillation[112]. …”