Anatomical Connections of Primate Mediodorsal and Motor Thalamic Nuclei with the Cortex

Abstract: Non-sensory thalamic nuclei interact with the cortex through thalamocortical and cortico-basal ganglia-thalamocortical loops. Reciprocal connections between the mediodorsal thalamus (MD) and the prefrontal cortex are particularly important in cognition, while the reciprocal connections of the ventromedial (VM), ventral anterior (VA), and ventrolateral (VL) thalamus with the prefrontal and motor cortex are necessary for sensorimotor information processing. However, limited and often oversimplified understanding of the connectivity of the MD, VA, and VL nuclei in primates have hampered development of accurate models that explain their contribution to cognitive and sensorimotor functions. The current prevalent view suggests that the MD connects with the prefrontal cortex, while the VA and VL primarily connect with the premotor and motor cortices. However, past studies have also reported diverse connections that enable these nuclei to integrate information across a multitude of brain systems. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the anatomical connectivity of the primate MD, VA, and VL with the cortex. By synthesizing recent findings, we aim to offer a valuable resource for students, newcomers to the field, and experts developing new theories or models of thalamic function. Our review highlights the complexity of these connections and underscores the need for further research to fully understand the diverse roles of these thalamic nuclei in primates.