Divergent outputs of the ventral lateral geniculate nucleus mediate visually evoked defensive behaviors
Lindsey D. Salay, Andrew D. Huberman
Abstract
neurons reduces freezing, whereas inactivation dramatically extends the duration of freezing to visual threats. Perturbations of vLGN activity disrupt exploration in brightly illuminated environments. We describe both a vLGN→nucleus reuniens (Re) circuit and a vLGN→superior colliculus (SC) circuit, which exert opposite influences on defensive responses. These findings reveal roles for genetic- and projection-defined vLGN subpopulations in modulating the expression of behavioral threat responses according to internal state.
Topics & Concepts
NeuroscienceLateral geniculate nucleusGeniculateBiologyPsychologyGeniculate bodyNucleusVisual cortexMemory and Neural MechanismsRetinal Development and DisordersNeural dynamics and brain function