Optical interrogation of multi-scale neuronal plasticity underlying behavioral learning

Behavioral learning is driven by adaptive changes in the activation of behaviorally relevant neuronal ensembles. This learning-specific reorganization circuits correlated with activity-dependent modifications synaptic dynamics. However, a definitive causal link remains to be established. How plasticity distributed among eventually shape behavioral learning? A multi-scale understanding progressive hindered lack techniques for monitoring and manipulating these events. The current rise optogenetics, especially combined brain-wide circuit imaging, opens an entirely new avenue studying causality at multiple scales. In this review, we summarize technical achievements discuss challenges linking across levels elucidate mechanisms learning.