Cytochrome oxidase "blobs": a call for more anatomy

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Primate Brain Research
• Visual Cortex Organization

Background:

• The relationship between brain structure and function is fundamental but complex due to intricate functional pathways and structural plasticity.
• Cytochrome oxidase (CO) blobs in macaque visual cortex represent a well-studied pattern with apparent structure-function correlations.
• Existing research suggests compartment-specific connectivity and physiological properties associated with CO blobs and interblobs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of the cytochrome oxidase (CO) blob pattern in macaque visual cortex.
• To highlight the under-investigated aspects of the CO blob system's finer anatomical organization.
• To emphasize the need for further research into the structure-function relationship of the CO pattern.

Main Methods:

• Mini-review of existing literature on cytochrome oxidase (CO) blobs in macaque visual cortex.
• Analysis of studies reporting on connectivity and physiological properties of CO+ blobs and CO- interblobs.
• Identification of gaps in knowledge regarding the microcircuitry and cell types within this system.

Main Results:

• The visually compelling pattern of CO+ blobs and CO- interblobs is consistent with compartment-specific functions.
• Despite visual evidence, the detailed anatomical organization of the CO blob system is surprisingly under-investigated.
• The precise relationship between the CO pattern's anatomical details and functional roles remains unclear.

Conclusions:

• The CO blob pattern in primate visual cortex offers a model for studying structure-function relationships.
• Further investigation into microcircuitry, cell types, and 3D organization of the CO pattern is crucial.
• Understanding this system can provide insights into visual cortex organization and facilitate phylogenetic/ontogenetic comparisons across primates.