Long-range connections between the amygdala, which helps process emotions, and cortical regions that power cognition help us manage our behavior and n

Newfound gene network controls long-range connections between emotional, cognitive brain areas

submited by
Style Pass
2024-11-16 23:00:03

Long-range connections between the amygdala, which helps process emotions, and cortical regions that power cognition help us manage our behavior and navigate social interactions.

Now scientists have identified genes that direct developing neurons in the amygdala and its surrounding areas to forge these vital connections. “We have found a key to opening a part of this mysterious region,” says investigator Navjot Kaur, associate research scientist in neuroscience in Nenad Sestan’s lab at Yale University.

Whereas neuron types in the prefrontal cortex and other parts of the neocortex self-sort into clear layers, disparate cells mingle in the amygdala. This intermixing makes it difficult to separate one neuron’s type from its neighbor’s—and to isolate the mechanisms that allow these distinct cell populations to develop and connect.

“It’s like looking at a beautiful six-layer fruit cake with distinct fruits in each layer where you can see, taste and appreciate each layer, versus a finely chopped fruit salad,” Kaur says.

Leave a Comment