Topographical projections from the nucleus basalis magnocellularis (Meynert) to the frontal cortex: A voltage-sensitive dye imaging study in rats.

BACKGROUND

The nucleus basalis magnocellularis/Meynert (NBM) has been explored as a new target for deep brain stimulation for neurological disorders. Although anatomical studies suggest the existence of cholinergic topographical projections of the NBM, it is still unknown whether NBM subregions differentially activate the frontal cortex.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the topography between the NBM and frontal cortex.

METHODS

Electrical stimulation was applied to the anterior and posterior sites of the NBM in rats, and the evoked frontal activity was investigated using voltage-sensitive dye (VSD) imaging.

RESULTS

VSD imaging revealed the functional topography of the NBM and frontal cortex: the anteroposterior axis of the NBM corresponded to the mediolateral axis of the dorsal frontal cortex.

CONCLUSION

The present results suggest site-specific control of frontal neuronal activity by the NBM. These findings have practical implications, as the anterior and posterior parts of the NBM could be targeted to improve cognitive and motor function, respectively.