Monosynaptic trans-collicular pathways link mouse whisker circuits to integrate somatosensory and motor cortical signals.

ABSTRACT: The superior colliculus (SC), a conserved midbrain node with extensive long-range connectivity throughout the brain, is a key structure for innate behaviors. Descending cortical pathways are increasingly recognized as central control points for SC-mediated behaviors, but how cortico-collicular pathways coordinate SC activity at the cellular level is poorly understood. Moreover, despite the known role of the SC as a multisensory integrator, the involvement of the SC in the somatosensory system is largely unexplored in comparison to its involvement in the visual and auditory systems. Here, we mapped the connectivity of the whisker-sensitive region of the SC in mice with trans-synaptic and intersectional tracing tools and in vivo electrophysiology. The results reveal a novel trans-collicular

SUBMITTER: Martin-Cortecero J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10234540 | biostudies-literature | 2023 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature