Thalamic contributions to the state and contents of consciousness.
Neuron
; 112(10): 1611-1625, 2024 May 15.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38754373
ABSTRACT
Consciousness can be conceptualized as varying along at least two dimensions the global state of consciousness and the content of conscious experience. Here, we highlight the cellular and systems-level contributions of the thalamus to conscious state and then argue for thalamic contributions to conscious content, including the integrated, segregated, and continuous nature of our experience. We underscore vital, yet distinct roles for core- and matrix-type thalamic neurons. Through reciprocal interactions with deep-layer cortical neurons, matrix neurons support wakefulness and determine perceptual thresholds, whereas the cortical interactions of core neurons maintain content and enable perceptual constancy. We further propose that conscious integration, segregation, and continuity depend on the convergent nature of corticothalamic projections enabling dimensionality reduction, a thalamic reticular nucleus-mediated divisive normalization-like process, and sustained coherent activity in thalamocortical loops, respectively. Overall, we conclude that the thalamus plays a central topological role in brain structures controlling conscious experience.
Palavras-chave
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Tálamo
/
Estado de Consciência
Limite:
Animals
/
Humans
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Neuron
Assunto da revista:
NEUROLOGIA
Ano de publicação:
2024
Tipo de documento:
Article
País de afiliação:
Austrália
País de publicação:
Estados Unidos