CaMKIIα neurons in the anterior insular cortex regulate attention behavior in mice

Introduction: The insular cortex is involved in multiple physiological processes including working memory, pain, emotion, and interoceptive functions. Previous studies have indicated that the anterior insular cortex (aIC) also mediates interoceptive attention in humans. However, the exact cellular and physiological function of the aIC in the regulation of this process is still elusive.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 CaMKIIa neurons after the 5-CSRTT procedure. In vivo fiber photometry revealed enhanced calcium signaling in aIC CaMKIIa neurons when the mice responded correctly. In addition, chemogenetic suppression of aIC CaMKIIa neurons led to increased incorrect responses within the appropriate time. Importantly, pharmacological activation of aIC CaMKIIa neurons enhanced their performance in the 5-CSRTT test.Discussion: These results provide compelling evidence that aIC CaMKIIa neurons are essential for the modulation of attentional processing in mice.

Automated summary

In this study, the role of the anterior insular cortex (aIC) in visuospatial attention and impulsiveness in mice was assessed using the 5-choice serial reaction time task (5-CSRTT) testing paradigm. The results showed activation of c-Fos in aIC CaMKIIa neurons after the 5-CSRTT procedure, and enhanced calcium signaling in these neurons when the mice responded correctly. Suppression of aIC CaMKIIa neurons led to increased incorrect responses, while pharmacological activation enhanced performance in the 5-CSRTT test.