Topologically organized networks in the claustrum reflect functional modularization

Using genetic strategies and viral-based directional tracers, we investigated the topological location and output networks of claustrum (CLA) neuron populations projecting to either the retrosplenial cortex, primary motor cortex, or basolateral amygdala. We found that all three CLA neuron population...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Ham, Gao Xiang, Augustine, George James
Other Authors: Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMedicine)
Format: Journal Article
Language:English
Published: 2022
Subjects:
Online Access:https://hdl.handle.net/10356/161415
Description
Summary:Using genetic strategies and viral-based directional tracers, we investigated the topological location and output networks of claustrum (CLA) neuron populations projecting to either the retrosplenial cortex, primary motor cortex, or basolateral amygdala. We found that all three CLA neuron populations clearly reside in distinct topological locations within the CLA complex and project broadly to multiple downstream targets. Each neuron population projects to different targets, suggesting that each CLA subzone coordinates a unique set of brain-wide functions. Our findings establish that the claustrum complex encompasses at least three minimally overlapping networks that are compartmentalized into different topological subzones. Such modularity is likely to be important for CLA function.