Integration of distinct cortical inputs to primary and higher order inhibitory cells of the thalamus

The neocortex controls its own sensory input in part through top-down inhibitory mechanisms. Descending corticothalamic projections drive GABAergic neurons of the thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN), which govern thalamocortical cell activity via inhibition. Neurons in sensory TRN are organized into primary and higher order (HO) subpopulations, with separate intrathalamic connections and distinct genetic and functional properties. Here, we investigated top-down neocortical control over primary and HO neurons of somatosensory TRN. Projections from layer 6 of somatosensory cortex evoked stronger and more state-dependent activity in primary than in HO TRN, driven by more robust synaptic inputs and potent T-type calcium currents. However, HO TRN received additional, physiologically distinct, inputs from motor cortex and layer 5 of S1. Thus, in a departure from the canonical focused sensory layer 6 innervation characteristic of primary TRN, HO TRN integrates broadly from multiple corticothalamic systems, with unique state-dependence, extending the range of mechanisms for top-down control.