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Nicotinic modulation of neuronal networks: from receptors to cognition

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Abstract

Rationale

Nicotine affects many aspects of human cognition, including attention and memory. Activation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in neuronal networks modulates activity and information processing during cognitive tasks, which can be observed in electroencephalograms (EEGs) and functional magnetic resonance imaging studies.

Objectives

In this review, we will address aspects of nAChR functioning as well as synaptic and cellular modulation important for nicotinic impact on neuronal networks that ultimately underlie its effects on cognition. Although we will focus on general mechanisms, an emphasis will be put on attention behavior and nicotinic modulation of prefrontal cortex. In addition, we will discuss how nicotinic effects at the neuronal level could be related to its effects on the cognitive level through the study of electrical oscillations as observed in EEGs and brain slices.

Results/Conclusions

Very little is known about mechanisms of how nAChR activation leads to a modification of electrical oscillation frequencies in EEGs. The results of studies using pharmacological interventions and transgenic animals implicate some nAChR types in aspects of cognition, but neuronal mechanisms are only poorly understood. We are only beginning to understand how nAChR distribution in neuronal networks impacts network functioning. Unveiling receptor and neuronal mechanisms important for nicotinic modulation of cognition will be instrumental for treatments of human disorders in which cholinergic signaling have been implicated, such as schizophrenia, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and addiction.

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Acknowledgements

The authors thank Dr. Ole Paulsen for critically reading the manuscript and Dr. Lorna Role for discussions. This work was supported by grants from the Netherlands Royal Academy of Sciences (HDM) and Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO) (HDM, ABB).

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  1. Department of Experimental Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

    Huibert D. Mansvelder, Karlijn I. van Aerde, Jonathan J. Couey & Arjen B. Brussaard

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  2. Karlijn I. van Aerde
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Mansvelder, H.D., van Aerde, K.I., Couey, J.J. et al. Nicotinic modulation of neuronal networks: from receptors to cognition. Psychopharmacology 184, 292–305 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-005-0070-z

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