Controlling neuronal assemblies: a fundamental function of respiration-related brain oscillations in neuronal networks

Abstract

Respiration exerts profound influence on cognition, which is presumed to rely on the generation of local respiration-coherent brain oscillations and the entrainment of cortical neurons. Here, we propose an addition to that view by emphasizing the role of respiration in pacing cortical assemblies (i.e., groups of synchronized, coactive neurons). We review recent findings of how respiration directly entrains identified assembly patterns and discuss how respiration-dependent pacing of assembly activations might be beneficial for cognitive functions.