The Diffuse Thalamic Projection System (DTPS) is the largest thalamic projection system in the central nervous system, distributing projections from the thalamus to the entire neocortex. It is composed of a large number of highly branched axons that originate in the thalamus and terminate in most of the cortical areas. Recent evidence suggests that the DTPS plays a critical role in cognition, perception, and behavior.
The thalamus, which is located in the midbrain, is the primary gateway for sensory information to the cerebral cortex. The DTPS, specifically, is composed of long-range axons that originate in the thalamus and send information to the neocortex. The DTPS is divided into three main pathways: the dorsal thalamic radiations, the medial thalamic radiations, and the ventral thalamic radiations. Each of these pathways is composed of distinct neuronal populations and can be further divided into sub-circuits.
Studies have demonstrated that the DTPS is involved in various cognitive processes. For example, the DTPS has been implicated in attentional processes such as attentional selection and allocation. It has also been shown to be involved in the formation of memory, as well as the regulation of emotion. Furthermore, the DTPS has been suggested to be involved in the integration of sensory and motor information, as well as in the integration of cognitive processes.
Studies have also suggested that the DTPS is involved in various disorders, such as autism, schizophrenia, and ADD/ADHD. For example, it has been suggested that the DTPS may be involved in autism due to its role in sensory integration and attentional processing. Additionally, it has been hypothesized that the DTPS may be involved in schizophrenia due to its role in sensory processing and emotion regulation. Finally, it has been suggested that the DTPS may be involved in ADD/ADHD due to its role in attentional processing.
In conclusion, the DTPS is a large and important thalamic projection system that is involved in a variety of cognitive processes and disorders. Further research is needed to fully understand the role of the DTPS in the brain and its potential implications for various disorders.
References
Bozorg-Haddad, O., Ghazavi, A., & Haddad, A. (2019). The diffuse thalamic projection system: An overview. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 103, 7-17.
Katz, D., & Markram, K. (2013). The diffuse thalamic projection system: A review. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 7, 801.
Moll, J., & Zilles, K. (2020). Diffuse thalamic projection system (DTPS): Anatomy and roles in cognition, emotion, and behavior. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 14, 855.
Roux, L., & Uhlhaas, P. (2018). The diffuse thalamic projection system: Its role in attention and its relevance for autism and schizophrenia. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 12, 1-10.