Parasagittal organization is an evolutionarily conserved, fundamental feature of the cerebellar cortex. Gene expression patterns, input and output pathways and susceptibility to degeneration divide Purkinje cells into at least two subpopulations. These subpopulations also exhibit differences in physiological properties, developmental timeline and synaptic plasticity.
I will present our recent advances into understanding the contribution of different subpopulations to sensorimotor behaviors. To this end, we have performed RNA sequencing, screened for candidate genes and identified the first mouse lines that allow for targeted manipulation of the subpopulations. We combined these lines with optogenetic tools to individually manipulate the activity of the subpopulations and demonstrate which kinematic elements they contribute to movements. Using in vivo calcium imaging, electrophysiological recordings and optotagging, we examined Purkinje cell activity during and after a, newly developed, cerebellum-dependent learning task. I will present the subpopulation-specific patterns of simple spike and complex spike responses we observed during a learned, complex movement.

For more information about Professor Schonewille, please see neuro.nl/person/Martijn-Schonewille#