Our understanding of axon pathfinding mechanisms has dramatically advanced thanks to the identification of guidance cues and receptors, and has been forged by the study of a limited number of model systems. Thalamocortical axons, which are essential for sensory processing and neocortical functioning, convey sensory information to the neocortex through a tightly controlled topographical interconnectivity between distinct thalamic neurons and cortical areas. Recent studies on this projection have provided mechanistic insights onto integrated processes controlling brain wiring: axons/guidepost cells interactions, building of reciprocal connections and the combinatorial activity of guidance cues. This review provides a selective overview of these novel features and stresses the interest of thalamocortical axons as an emerging model for studying axonal guidance and plasticity.
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