Theta oscillations in the hippocampal-prefrontal pathway: importance in the cognitive performance

Background and Aim : The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is a core structure for the execution of diverse higher cortical functions known as cognition. PFC connects to the hippocampus, and together synchronize and transmit acquired information during cognitive behaviors. Numerous evidences exhibit that theta oscillations provide communications between these two crucial areas during functional, executive, and cognitive performances.Methods : Various databases such as google scholar, Pub Med and Science direct were reviewed and 70 papers were selected. Of these, 40 articles were selected as the main essay for writing this review.Results : Theta rhythms relay hippocampal inputs to the prefrontal cortex during memory and learning tasks as well as cognitive malfunctions like schizophrenia and integrate these two regions. The direct and indirect connection between hippocampus and PFC through structures such as thalamus and amygdala lead to the formation of various circuits between them. Miscellaneous animal studies indicate that theta phase-locking is disturbed in psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and depression.Conclusion : Based on these documents, theta rhythm has a key role in the hippocampal-prefrontal connections, but further studies are needed to disclose the precise role of theta rhythm fluctuations in the hippocampal-prefrontal pathway.

Keywords:

theta rhythm , hippocampal-prefrontal pathway , cognition , memory