Learning speed and detection sensitivity controlled by distinct cortico-fugal neurons in visual cortex.

ABSTRACT: Vertebrates can change their behavior upon detection of visual stimuli according to the outcome their actions produce. Such goal-directed behavior involves evolutionary conserved brain structures like the striatum and optic tectum, which receive ascending visual input from the periphery. In mammals, however, these structures also receive descending visual input from visual cortex (VC), via neurons that give rise to cortico-fugal projections. The function of cortico-fugal neurons in visually guided, goal-directed behavior remains unclear. Here, we address the impact of two populations of cortico-fugal neurons in mouse VC in the learning and performance of a visual detection task. We show that the ablation of striatal projecting neurons reduces learning speed, whereas the ablation of superio

SUBMITTER: Ruediger S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7748414 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature