Basket cell

Basket cells are a type of interneuron found in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus, regions of the brain that play key roles in memory, attention, perception, and consciousness. Named for their basket-like appearance, these cells are critical for the regulation of neuronal activity.

Function

Basket cells are inhibitory interneurons, meaning they help to regulate the activity of other neurons. They do this by releasing inhibitory neurotransmitters, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which decrease the likelihood that the receiving neuron will fire an action potential. This inhibitory function is critical for maintaining the balance of excitation and inhibition in the brain, which is necessary for normal brain function.

Structure

Basket cells are characterized by their dense, basket-like network of axons that envelop the cell bodies of other neurons. This allows them to influence the activity of these neurons by releasing inhibitory neurotransmitters directly onto their cell bodies.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in basket cells have been implicated in a number of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, autism, and epilepsy. For example, post-mortem studies of individuals with schizophrenia have found a decrease in the number of basket cells in certain regions of the brain. This suggests that these cells may play a role in the pathophysiology of this disorder.

See also

• Interneuron
• Neurotransmitter
• Gamma-aminobutyric acid
• Schizophrenia
• Autism
• Epilepsy