Scientists Unveil Intricate Neural Landscape of the Hippocampus

Chinese scientists have achieved a groundbreaking milestone by unveiling the most detailed depiction to date of mouse cells in the hippocampus, a critical brain region responsible for learning and memory. The study delves into the intricate connectivity of single neurons within the hippocampus and explores their interactions with neurons in other parts of the brain, opening new doors for understanding brain disorders and advancing treatment strategies.

Published on the website of the US-based journal Science, the research marks a significant step forward in comprehending the functions of hippocampal neurons and holds promise for the prevention and treatment of related diseases, including Alzheimer’s.

The hippocampus plays a pivotal role in various brain functions such as learning, memory (especially short-term memory), context and spatial cognition, navigation, stress responses, and emotional behaviors. The study, led by the Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), sheds light on the extensive signaling between hippocampal neurons and their connections throughout the brain.

Poo Muming, an academician with CAS and director of academics at the Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, emphasized the potential impact of the research on understanding brain disorders. “For example, the earliest manifestation of Alzheimer’s disease in the brain is the death of cells in the hippocampus and their abnormal connections. This research may pave the way for a better understanding of various brain disorders,” said Poo.

The collaborative effort involved institutions such as the Suzhou Institute of Neurospatial Information of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hainan University, CAS’ Kunming Institute of Zoology, the Lingang Laboratory, and the Shanghai Center for Brain Science and Brain-inspired Technology.

To create a comprehensive neural roadmap, scientists utilized a diverse range of tools, reconstructing a map of 10,100 single neurons in the mouse hippocampus and identifying 43 neural projection patterns. Xu Chun, a leading researcher on the team and a correspondent author of the paper, highlighted the significance of uncovering spatial organization principles, providing a structural basis for a better understanding of hippocampal neuron function.

The vast dataset presented in the paper earned praise in peer reviews, with one stating, “This enormous dataset provides unprecedented insights into the divergence of hippocampal output, bilateral projections, and some of the principles of hippocampal projections at the level of individual neurons.”

Looking ahead, Poo expressed optimism about the research results laying the foundation for creating a functional map of single neurons in the mouse hippocampus. This map could offer insights into how signals are transmitted and which neurons and signals are linked to specific brain functions, such as memory, learning, and emotions. The study’s findings hold promise for shaping the future of neuroscience research and potential breakthroughs in treating neurological disorders.