Classification and function of GABAergic interneurons of the mammalian cerebral cortex

GABAergic interneurons make up about 20% of neurons in the cortex and are a heterogeneous group of cells. In recent years it has become clear that different populations of interneurons not only provide the balance of excitation and inhibition in neural networks but are also critically important for generation of rhythmic activity, successful processing of sensory information, implementation of synaptic plasticity and a number of other functions. We examine current approaches to classification of interneurons and review the properties and the functional role of basket cells, chandelier cells, neurogliaform interneurons, Martinotti cells, and some other classes of interneurons based on morphological, immunohistochemical, electrophysiological and optogenetic studies. Besides, we consider the opportunities of the selective impact on target population of interneurons and review the data on the role of different types of interneurons in the pathogenesis of epilepsy and schizophrenia. © 2013 Pleiades Publishing, Ltd.