@article {49011, title = {Mutual inhibition of lateral inhibition: a network motif for an elementary computation in the brain.}, journal = {Current Opinion in Neurobiology}, volume = {49}, year = {2018}, month = {2018 Jan 16}, pages = {69-74}, abstract = {

A series of classical studies in non-human primates has revealed the neuronal activity patterns underlying decision-making. However, the circuit mechanisms for such patterns remain largely unknown. Recent detailed circuit analyses in simpler neural systems have started to reveal the connectivity patterns underlying analogous processes. Here we review a few of these systems that share a particular connectivity pattern, namely mutual inhibition of lateral inhibition. Close examination of these systems suggests that this recurring connectivity pattern ({\textquoteright}network motif{\textquoteright}) is a building block to enforce particular dynamics, which can be used not only for simple behavioral choice but also for more complex choices and other brain functions. Thus, a network motif provides an elementary computation that is not specific to a particular brain function and serves as an elementary building block in the brain.

}, issn = {1873-6882}, doi = {10.1016/j.conb.2017.12.019}, author = {Koyama, Minoru and Pujala, Avinash} }