Functional dissection of thalamocortical interactions through genetically-defined TRN subnetworks
PROJECT SUMMARY The thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN), the major source of thalamic inhibition, plays essential roles in sensory processing, arousal and cognition. Receiving inputs from cortical and subcortical regions, this structure is strategically positioned to influence thalamo-cortical interactions. During quiescence, the TRN participate in sleep rhythm generation, sleep stability and memory consolidation, while in active states, TRN neurons contribute to sensory filtering underlying attention.