Loss of striatal interneurons expressing parvalbumin (PV+) is associated with impulsive and uncontrolled behaviors, yet how these cells contribute to striatal information processing is poorly understood. We compared spiking of five identified neuron types in sensorimotor striatum, as unrestrained rats waited for a cue then performed brief, well-practiced actions. During waiting PV+ selectively increased firing, and their suppression increased premature movements. This indicated a role restraining actions, yet PV+ suppression during the cue instead retarded actions. Each action was accompanied by a rapid sequence of spiny projection neuron (SPN) spiking, including both direct and indirect pathways and overlaid by sequential PV+ firing. Pairs of PV+ and SPNs showed millisecond-level synchrony, and PV+ firing inhibited nearby SPNs ~2ms later. PV+ interneurons thus provide both broad restraint and precise sculpting of striatal output to achieve fluid, appropriately timed behavior.
Neural manifolds that orchestrate walking and stopping
Walking, stopping and maintaining posture are essential motor behaviors, yet the underlying neural processes remain poorly understood. Here, we investigate neural activity behind locomotion and