Reticular thalamic nucleus: By Dr Nadeem Ghayas
October 24, 2025
The reticular thalamic nucleus (TRN) acts as a gatekeeper for information flowing between the thalamus and the cerebral cortex, primarily through its inhibitory, GABAergic neurons. Its main functions include regulating attention and sensory processing, controlling cortical and thalamic oscillations during sleep, and playing a role in cognitive flexibility and motor control. TRN dysfunction has been linked to various behavioral disorders, such as autism, ADHD, and schizophrenia.
Key functions:
- • Sensory and attention gating:
The TRN inhibits or disinhibits the flow of sensory information to the cortex, playing a crucial role in selective attention by controlling what information is processed.
• Sleep and arousal:
It regulates sleep rhythms, contributing to thalamocortical oscillations and influencing arousal states.
• Cognitive functions:
The TRN is involved in higher-order cognitive processes, including executive functions, flexibility, and motor control.
• Modulation of thalamic activity:
It receives input from both the cortex and other thalamic nuclei and sends inhibitory projections back to the thalamus, which modulates the activity of thalamic relay neurons.
Role in neurological conditions:
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD):
TRN dysfunction has been linked to sensory processing abnormalities and repetitive behaviors seen in ASD.
. Schizophrenia and ADHD:
The TRN is implicated in the deficits observed in these conditions, which can include sensory disturbances and attention issues.