Project name: Spatial Avian Optic tectum

Description: The avian optic tectum (OT) has been extensively studied for its diverse functions, yet a comprehensive understanding of its molecular landscape at the cellular level has been lacking. In this study, we employed spatial omics and single nucleus RNA-seq (snRNA-seq) techniques to explore the cellular organization and molecular characteristics of the avian OT. We identified comprehensive layer-specific genes that were highly conserved across avian species and revealed diverse functions in different layers, with the stratum griseum periventriculare (SGP) potentially playing a key role in higher functions of OT. Furthermore, we clarified the laminar distribution of six inhibitory neuron subtypes in OT, which may be related to the visual map of OT. Focusing on the multimodal functions of deeper layers in avian OT, we characterized detailed neuronal subtypes and identified a population of FOXG1+ excitatory neurons, resembling those found in the mouse neocortex, potentially involved in higher-order processing functions and expansion of avian OT. Investigation of inhibitory neurons indicated the medial and lateral ganglionic eminence as the main origins for INN in OT and uncovered a potentially species-specific subtype. These findings could contribute to improving our understanding of the molecular and cellular architecture of avian OT, shedding light on visual processing.

Data type: Transcriptome or Gene expression

Sample scope: Multispecies

Relevance: Evolution

Release date: 2023-12-06

Last updated: 2023-12-06

Data size: 916.89GB