Retrosplenial Cortex Theta Dynamics During Spatial Learning

Spatial learning depends on distributed brain circuits that integrate sensory information with internal representations of space. The retrosplenial cortex (RSC) is a key cortical hub in this network, yet how RSC activity relates to efficient navigation during learning remains unclear. To investigate this relationship, rats performed a cheeseboard spatial memory task while behavioral trajectories and neural activity (local field potentials and single units) were recorded from the RSC. Behavioral analyses revealed clear learning-related changes in navigation: from Day 1 to Day 3, trajectories became progressively shorter and more direct, indicating increased spatial efficiency as animals learned the task layout. Additionally, local field dynamics demonstrated learned behavior through changes in delta and theta bands across all three learning days. These results demonstrate robust spatial memory acquisition and motivate ongoing analyses of RSC theta dynamics during learning.