Mapping the functional network of medial prefrontal cortex by combining optogenetics and fMRI in awake rats.

ABSTRACT: The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) plays a critical role in multiple cognitive and limbic functions. Given its vital importance, investigating the function of individual mPFC circuits in animal models has provided critical insight into the neural basis underlying different behaviors and psychiatric conditions. However, our knowledge regarding the mPFC whole-brain network stays largely at the anatomical level, while the functional network of mPFC, which can be dynamic in different conditions or following manipulations, remains elusive especially in awake rodents. Here we combined optogenetic stimulation and functional magnetic resonance imaging (opto-fMRI) to reveal the network of brain regions functionally activated by mPFC outputs in awake rodents. Our data showed significant increases i

SUBMITTER: Liang Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4512884 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature