Core-matrix theory of thalamus

The core-matrix theory of thalamus, first proposed by Ted Jones in 1998, states that neurons in the thalamus belong to either a parvalbumin-immunopositive core of precisely projecting neurons, or to a calbindin-immunopositive matrix of diffusely and widely projecting neurons.[1][2]

Neurons comprising the core are believed to be involved in propagation of 'driving' information, whereas neurons comprising the matrix are believed to play a more modulatory role.[3]: 1612  The cortical interactions of core neurons maintain content and enable perceptual constancy, whereas through reciprocal interactions with deep-layer cortical neurons, matrix neurons support wakefulness and determine perceptual thresholds.[3]: 1611 

  1. ^ Jones, Edward G. (1998). "Viewpoint: The core and matrix of thalamic organization". Neuroscience. 85 (2): 331–345. doi:10.1016/S0306-4522(97)00581-2. PMID 9622234.
  2. ^ Clasca, Francisco (2024). "Thalamic output pathways: Global layout and nucleus-level organization". In Usrey, W. Martin; Sherman, S. Murray (eds.). The cerebral cortex and thalamus. New York: Oxford University Press. pp. 109–120. ISBN 978-0-19-767615-8.
  3. ^ a b Whyte, Christopher J.; Redinbaugh, Michelle J.; Shine, James M.; Saalmann, Yuri B. (2024). "Thalamic contributions to the state and contents of consciousness". Neuron. 112 (10): 1611–1625. doi:10.1016/j.neuron.2024.04.019. Retrieved 26 September 2024.