Volume-transmitted GABA waves pace epileptiform rhythms in the hippocampal network

Mechanisms that entrain and pace rhythmic epileptiform discharges remain debated. Traditionally, the quest to understand them has focused on interneuronal networks driven by synaptic GABAergic connections. How-ever, synchronized interneuronal discharges could also trigger the transient elevations of extracellular GABA across the tissue volume, thus raising tonic conductance (Gtonic) of synaptic and extrasynaptic GABA recep-tors in multiple cells. Here, we monitor extracellular GABA in hippocampal slices using patch-clamp GABA snifferand a novel optical GABA sensor, showing that periodic epileptiform discharges are preceded by transient, region-wide waves of extracellular GABA. Neural network simulations that incorporate volume -transmitted GABA signals point to a cycle of GABA-driven network inhibition and disinhibition underpinning this relationship. We test and validate this hypothesis using simultaneous patch-clamp recordings from multiple neurons and selective optogenetic stimulation of fast-spiking interneurons. Critically, reducing GABA uptake in order to decelerate extracellular GABA fluctuations-without affecting synaptic GABAergic transmission or resting GABA levels-slows down rhythmic activity. Our findings thus unveil a key role of extrasynaptic, volume-transmitted GABA in pacing regenerative rhythmic activity in brain networks.

Automated summary

This study found that periodic epileptiform discharges are preceded by transient, region-wide waves of extracellular GABA. Neural network simulations suggest that this phenomenon is caused by a cycle of GABA-driven network inhibition and disinhibition. Additionally, reducing GABA uptake can slow down rhythmic activity. These findings uncover the important role of extrasynaptic, volume-transmitted GABA in pacing regenerative rhythmic activity in brain networks.