Discussion
These results provide compelling evidence that aIC CaMKIIα neurons are essential for the modulation of attentional processing in mice.
Methods
In this study, using the 5-choice serial reaction time task (5-CSRTT) testing paradigm, we assessed the role of the aIC in visuospatial attention and impulsiveness in mice.
Results
The results showed a dramatic activation of c-Fos in the aIC CaMKIIα neurons after the 5-CSRTT procedure. In vivo fiber photometry revealed enhanced calcium signaling in aIC CaMKIIα neurons when the mice responded correctly. In addition, chemogenetic suppression of aIC CaMKIIα neurons led to increased incorrect responses within the appropriate time. Importantly, pharmacological activation of aIC CaMKIIα neurons enhanced their performance in the 5-CSRTT test.