A functional model of adult dentate gyrus neurogenesis

In adult dentate gyrus neurogenesis, the link between maturation of newborn neurons and their function, such as behavioral pattern separation, has remained puzzling. By analyzing a theoretical model, we show that switch from excitation to inhibition GABAergic input onto maturing cells is crucial for proper functional integration. When excitatory, cooperativity drives growth synapses become sensitive stimuli similar those activate mature cells. switches inhibitory, competition pushes configuration toward are different previously stored ones. This enables code concepts novel, yet familiar Our theory cell explains both how adult-born granule integrate into preexisting network why they promote separation but not distinct patterns.