Systems Neuroscience of Learning and Memory

Prof. Dr. Anton Sirota

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+49 89 2180-74805

Prof. Dr. Anton Sirota

Raum D01.047B

Anton Sirota at the Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience

Anton Sirota in the GSN

We study spatial navigation, learning, and memory consolidation in cortico-hippocampal circuits by integrating neural population coding, network dynamics, and quantitative behavior analysis.

Systems Neuroscience of Learning and Memory

Our research centers on the systems neurobiology of learning and memory. We study how information is represented and propagated across brain circuits spanning the neocortex and hippocampus during memory acquisition in learning and its consolidation during sleep.

We approach this question at three interrelated levels: neural population activity, network dynamics, and natural behavior in rodents. Using dense local and large-scale translaminar and transregional multichannel extracellular recordings, combined with a broad range of quantitative analytical approaches, we dissect multiscale spatiotemporal oscillatory dynamics, reveal functional population representations, and relate these to ongoing behavior. Ultimately, our goal is to uncover the dynamical systems mechanisms that support memory formation, consolidation, and retrieval.

Methods & Approaches

We use state-of-the-art multichannel extracellular recordings to study neural activity across multiple cortical areas in behaving rodents. Our laboratory develops and applies both naturalistic and computer-controlled behavioral paradigms, including freely moving virtual reality, alongside 3D tracking methods that enable quantitative segmentation and precise experimental control of behavior. We combine advanced signal processing, multivariate statistics, and machine learning to quantitatively characterize neural population activity, network oscillations, and behavioral dynamics. To establish causal links between circuit activity and behavior, we employ optogenetic stimulation, electrical stimulation, and pharmacological manipulations. In collaboration with engineering partners, we also design and develop novel sensor technologies for next-generation neural recording.

Publications

Selected Publications:

Meyerolbersleben, L., Sirota A.*, Busse L.* (2025) Anatomically resolved oscillatory bursts reveal dynamic motifs of thalamocortical activity during naturalistic stimulus viewing. Neuron, Volume 113, Issue 13, 2196 - 2214.e6. (* corresponding authors)

Fernandez-Ruiz A, Sirota A, Lopes-dos-Santos V, Dupret D. (2023) Over and above frequency: Gamma oscillations as units of neural circuit operations. Neuron 111 (7), 936-953.

Karalis, N., Sirota, A. (2022) Breathing coordinates cortico-hippocampal dynamics in mice during offline states. Nat Commun 13, 467.

Karalis N, Dejean C, Chaudun F, Khoder S, Rozeske R, Wurtz H, Bagur S, Benchenane K, Sirota A, Courtin J, Herry C (2016). 4-Hz oscillations synchronize prefrontal–amygdala circuits during fear behaviour. Nature Neuroscience, 535(7612): 420-4.

Minlebaev M, Colonnese M, Tsintsadze T, Sirota A*, Khazipov R* (2011) Early Gamma Oscillations Synchronize Developing Thalamus and Cortex. Science, 334(6053):226-9. (*equally contributed)

All publications can be found here:

Alumni: