Spontaneous activity in developing thalamic and cortical sensory networks

Developing sensory circuits exhibit different patterns of spontaneous activity, patterns that are related to the construction and refinement of functional networks. During the development of different sensory modalities, spontaneous activity originates in the immature peripheral sensory structures and in the higher-order central structures, such as the thalamus and cortex. Certainly, the perinatal thalamus exhibits spontaneous calcium waves, a pattern of activity that is fundamental for the formation of sensory maps and for circuit plasticity. Here, we review our current understanding of the maturation of early (including embryonic) patterns of spontaneous activity and their influence on the assembly of thalamic and cortical sensory networks. Overall, the data currently available suggest similarities between the developmental trajectory of brain activity in experimental models and humans, which in the future may help to improve the early diagnosis of developmental disorders.

Automated summary

Spontaneous activity in developing sensory circuits plays a crucial role in the construction and refinement of functional networks. Originating from various sensory structures, such as the thalamus and cortex, this activity is fundamental for sensory map formation and circuit plasticity. Current data suggest similarities between the developmental trajectory of brain activity in experimental models and humans, offering potential for early diagnosis of developmental disorders.