Stable sequential dynamics in prefrontal cortex represents subjective estimation of time.

ABSTRACT: Time estimation is an essential prerequisite underlying various cognitive functions. Previous studies identified 'sequential firing' and 'activity ramps' as the primary neuron activity patterns in the medial frontal cortex (mPFC) that could convey information regarding time. However, the relationship between these patterns and the timing behavior has not been fully understood. In this study, we utilized in vivo calcium imaging of mPFC in rats performing a timing task. We observed cells that showed selective activation at trial start, end, or during the timing interval. By aligning long-term time-lapse datasets, we discovered that sequential patterns of time coding were stable over weeks, while cells coding for trial start or end showed constant dynamism. Furthermore, with a novel behavior

SUBMITTER: Li Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11634065 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature