ArticleNeuron2026
Ethological learning during the critical period resets synaptic setpoints in mouse binocular visual cortex.
Article in Neuron, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 6 papers.
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6 citing papers in PubMed.
- PSD-95 drives binocular vision maturation critical for predation.bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology · 2026Article
- Mice use predictive environmental cues to adapt predatory behavior in hunting tasks of variable difficulty.bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology · 2026Article
- Satellite Glial Cells Drive Homeostatic Synaptic Structural Plasticity in Sympathetic Neurons.bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology · 2026Article
- Robust learning-driven structural and functional plasticity of spines in the mature mouse cortex: Robust learning-driven plasticity of spines in the mature cortex.bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology · 2026Article
- Premature vision drives aberrant development of response properties in primary visual cortex.eLife · 2025Article
- Premature vision drives aberrant development of response properties in primary visual cortex.bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology · 2025Article
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Abstract
Critical periods are developmental windows that allow experience-dependent refinement of neuronal circuitry and function. While the consequences of sensory deprivation or alteration during the visual critical period have been well characterized, the impact of ethological experiences requiring active interaction with the sensory world is largely unexplored. Here, we use prey capture learning to assess structural and functional plasticity associated with visual learning in the primary visual cortex of critical-period mice. We show that prey capture learning supports improved temporal frequency discrimination and profoundly remodels visual circuitry by increasing spine turnover and moving spine density across the dendritic arbors of pyramidal neurons to new stable values. This widespread and persistent rewiring is absent in adults and supported by tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α)-dependent homeostatic plasticity that contributes to behavioral improvement. Ethological critical period learning can thus co-opt homeostatic mechanisms to reset synaptic weight bounds to enable widespread synaptic remodeling to support improved visual function and behavior.
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