Neuronal population activity dynamics reveal a low-dimensional signature of operant learning in Aplysia

• Published in: Communications biology 2022-01, Vol.5 (1), p.90-90, Article 90
• Main Authors: Costa, Renan M., Baxter, Douglas A., Byrne, John H.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: 14/63; 631/378/1595/1396; 631/378/2632/2633; 631/378/3920; Animals; Aplysia; Aplysia - physiology; Biology; Biomedical and Life Sciences; Conditioning, Operant - physiology; Learning; Life Sciences; Neuroimaging; Neurons - physiology; Operant conditioning; Population; Recruitment; Voltage
• ISSN: 2399-3642; 2399-3642
• DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03044-1

Learning engages a high-dimensional neuronal population space spanning multiple brain regions. However, it remains unknown whether it is possible to identify a low-dimensional signature associated with operant conditioning, a ubiquitous form of learning in which animals learn from the consequences of behavior. Using single-neuron resolution voltage imaging, here we identify two low-dimensional motor modules in the neuronal population underlying Aplysia feeding. Our findings point to a temporal shift in module recruitment as the primary signature of operant learning. Our findings can help guide characterization of learning signatures in systems in which only a smaller fraction of the relevant neuronal population can be monitored. Costa et al. use single-neuron resolution voltage imaging to identify two low-dimensional motor modules in the neuronal population underlying Aplysia feeding. Their findings point to a temporal shift in module recruitment as the primary signature of operant learning.