Report Narrowband gamma oscillations propagate and synchronize throughout the mouse thalamocortical visual system

Oscillations of neural activity permeate sensory systems. In the visual system, broadband gamma oscilla-tions (30-80 Hz) are thought to act as a communication mechanism underlying perception. However, these oscillations show widely varying frequency and phase, providing constraints for coordinating spike timing across areas. Here, we examined Allen Brain Observatory data and performed causal experiments to show that narrowband gamma (NBG) oscillations (50-70 Hz) propagate and synchronize throughout the awake mouse visual system. Lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) neurons fired precisely relative to NBG phase in primary visual cortex (V1) and multiple higher visual areas (HVAs). NBG neurons across areas showed a higher likelihood of functional connectivity and stronger visual responses; remarkably, NBG neurons in LGN, preferring bright (ON) versus dark (OFF), fired at distinct NBG phases aligned across the cortical hier-archy. NBG oscillations may thus serve to coordinate spike timing across brain areas and facilitate commu-nication of distinct visual features during perception.

Automated summary

Research suggests that narrowband gamma (NBG) oscillations (50-70Hz) play a role in coordinating spike timing and facilitating communication across brain areas in the awake mouse visual system, enhancing functional connectivity and visual responses. These oscillations may help in the perception of distinct visual features.