Entorhinal layer 6b subplate neurons govern spatial learning and memory

Abstract

The mammalian hippocampal formation (HF) plays a key role in several higher brain functions, such as spatial coding, learning and memory. Its simple circuit architecture is often viewed as a "trisynaptic loop", processing input originating from the superficial layers of the entorhinal cortex (EC) in a linear fashion, and sending it back to its deeper layers. Here, we show that contrary to this canonical view, excitatory neurons in the deepest layer of the mouse EC, exhibiting the unique morphology and molecular profile of layer 6b cortical subplate neurons (SPNs), project to all sub-regions comprising the HF, with a preference towards CA3 pyramidal neurons, and receive input from the CA1, thalamus and claustrum. Furthermore, their output is characterized by unique slow-decaying excitatory post-synaptic currents (EPSCs), capable of driving plateau-like potentials in their target cells. Optogenetic inhibition of the EC-6b pathway markedly affects spatial coding in CA1 pyramidal neurons, while cell ablation impairs not only acquisition of new spatial memories, but also degradation of previously acquired ones. Our results provide the first evidence of a functional role for the cortical layer 6b neurons in the adult brain and elucidate a critical novel element determining cortico-hippocampal activity patterns.