parvalbumin-positive interneuron
Also written as: PV — parvalbumin-positive interneuron
Fast-spiking inhibitory neurons expressing the calcium-binding protein parvalbumin.
Full Definition
Parvalbumin-positive interneurons are a major class of GABAergic inhibitory neurons characterized by their expression of the calcium-binding protein parvalbumin and their fast-spiking firing properties. These neurons provide powerful perisomatic inhibition to pyramidal cells and play crucial roles in generating gamma oscillations and maintaining excitatory-inhibitory balance in cortical circuits. Dysfunction of parvalbumin interneurons has been implicated in various psychiatric disorders including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism, making them important targets for therapeutic intervention.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as PV interneurons; specify the brain region when discussing distribution patterns.
In Context
- "Immunohistochemistry revealed reduced parvalbumin-positive interneuron density in the prefrontal cortex." — Postmortem study
- "The researchers targeted parvalbumin-positive interneurons using cell-type-specific optogenetics." — Experimental methodology