Theta phase modulates multiple layer-specific oscillations in the CA1 region

Cereb Cortex. 2012 Oct;22(10):2404-14. doi: 10.1093/cercor/bhr319. Epub 2011 Nov 10.

Abstract

It was recently proposed that fast gamma oscillations (60-150 Hz) convey spatial information from the medial entorhinal cortex (EC) to the CA1 region of the hippocampus. However, here we describe 2 functionally distinct oscillations within this frequency range, both coupled to the theta rhythm during active exploration and rapid eye movement sleep: an oscillation with peak activity at ∼80 Hz and a faster oscillation centered at ∼140 Hz. The 2 oscillations are differentially modulated by the phase of theta depending on the CA1 layer; theta-80 Hz coupling is strongest at stratum lacunosum-moleculare, while theta-140 Hz coupling is strongest at stratum oriens-alveus. This laminar profile suggests that the ∼80 Hz oscillation originates from EC inputs to deeper CA1 layers, while the ∼140 Hz oscillation reflects CA1 activity in superficial layers. We further show that the ∼140 Hz oscillation differs from sharp wave-associated ripple oscillations in several key characteristics. Our results demonstrate the existence of novel theta-associated high-frequency oscillations and suggest a redefinition of fast gamma oscillations.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biological Clocks / physiology*
  • CA1 Region, Hippocampal / physiology*
  • Male
  • Nerve Net / physiology*
  • Rats
  • Rats, Long-Evans
  • Rats, Wistar
  • Theta Rhythm / physiology*