# Synaptic and circuit mechanisms of learned motor sequences

> **NIH NIH R01** · NEW YORK UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE · 2021 · $426,034

## Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract
 This project aims to investigate the circuit mechanisms that enable learned complex behaviors, such as
playing the violin or hitting a tennis forehand. At present, the processes which underlie the generation of
these behavioral sequences by neural networks are poorly understood. Specifically, the contributions of
various cell types to this network behavior remain underexplored. Here we consider an important motor
control nucleus in the zebra finch called HVC (formerly known as the high vocal center), which produces
neural sequences during the performance of the learned courtship song. Our proposal focuses on local circuit
interneurons, which represent the sole source of inhibition to this network. Several models have been
proposed to explain the role of inhibition in song production, but consensus remains elusive. To test these
models, we propose a series of electrophysiological, imaging, and optogenetic studies that will enable us to
manipulate and monitor HVC interneurons selectively, often in the context of song production.
 In Aim 1, we will examine the role of inhibition from a postsynaptic perspective. The primary focus of
this aim is to record inhibitory synaptic currents onto HVC projection neurons during song production.
 In Aim 2, we will examine the role of inhibition from a presynaptic perspective by directly measuring
populations of identified interneurons during singing. We will also gauge the impact of individual
interneurons on the network using anatomical and electrophysiological methods.
 In Aim 3, we will use in vivo and in vitro measurements to characterize the genetic subtypes of HVC
interneurons and to distinguish their roles within the network.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10164869
- **Project number:** 5R01NS075044-09
- **Recipient organization:** NEW YORK UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE
- **Principal Investigator:** MICHAEL A LONG
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $426,034
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2011-09-30 → 2023-05-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10164869

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10164869, Synaptic and circuit mechanisms of learned motor sequences (5R01NS075044-09). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10164869. Licensed CC0.

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