Role of Layer 6 of V2 Visual Cortex in Object-Recognition Memory

Abstract

Modulating Visual Memory: Layer 3 of the secondary visual cortical area V2 plays a role in visual information processing. However, in contrast to layer 3, layer 6 of visual cortex is composed of many types of neurons and their response to visual stimuli is more complex. The importance of layer 6 in visual information processing remains an enigma. López-Aranda et al. (p. 87 ; see the Perspective by Saksida ) investigated its role in the rat visual cortex in the processing of both short- and long-term visual memory. Elimination of neurons from layer 6 of area V2 led to complete loss of normal memory. However, overexpression of a protein called RGS-14 in the same area boosted the visual memory capacity in such a way that the animals retained the visual information for many months, rather than the normal 45 minutes.