Thalamus

Question 1

With respect to inputs, what is the difference between a first order nuclei and a higher order nuclei?

Answer 1

First order nuclei process sensory information and project to primary sensory areas in the cortex

Higher order nuclei receive layer 6 inputs from cortex

Question 2

Mention one first order nuclei and the presumed function of this nuclei

Answer 2

First order thalamic nuclei: Process sensory information and project to primary sensory cortex

Question 3

Mention one higher order nuclei and the presumed function of this nuclei

Answer 3

Higher order thalamic nuclei receive layer 6 inputs

Question 4

What are the origins of inputs to a thalamic relay neuron

Answer 4

from limbic structures (limbic cortex, amygdala), from the basal forebrain, and from the hypothalamus

Question 5

How does tonic versus burst mode of a thalamic relay neurons affect its sensory computations

Answer 5

Tonic mode has a high resting membrane potential and a linear input/output curve
(good for sensory discrimination)

Burst mode has low resting membrane potential and a non-linear curve.
(Not good for sensory discrimination)

Question 6

To which cortical layer does a thalamic relay neuron project to

Answer 6

Target layer 4 in cortex

Question 7

From which cortical layer does a thalamic relay neuron receives its inputs

Answer 7

Mainly Layer 6 in cortex