Role of individual neurons and neural networks in cognitive functioning of the brain: A new insight

The prevailing concept in modem neuroscience is that neuron networks play a dominant role in the functioning of the nervous system. whereas the role of individual neurons is rather insignificant. This concept suggests that "individuality" of single neurons is primarily determined by their place in a network rather than their intrinsic properties. Here I argue that individual neurons may play an important. if not decisive, role in performing cognitive functions of the brain. This tentative viewpoint is supported by experimental and clinical insights into disorders of cognitive functions and by genetic studies of cognitive abilities and disabilities. The results obtained in these studies indicate that many specific cognitive functions are carried out by groups of highly specialized neurons whose roles in performing these functions are genetically predetermined and their activity could not be substituted by the activity of other neurons. In this context. the main role of neural networks and intercellular interactions is to form dynamic ensembles of neurons involved in performing a given cognitive function. (C) 2001 Academic Press.