Description:

James J. Knierim
Johns Hopkins University

Although computational models propose different functions of the subregions of the hippocampus (e.g., the dentate gyrus, CA3, and CA1), most models consider the subregions themselves as functionally homogeneous units. Anatomical and functional differences along the longitudinal axis have been reported, but less attention has been paid to gradients along the transverse axis (i.e., along the CA3-CA2-CA1 pyramidal cell layer). We recorded place cells along this axis in an environment where the local and global reference frames were rotated relative to each other. We discovered response differences within the subregions along the transverse axis, demonstrating functional heterogeneity within the subregions.