Distribution of Non-pyramidal Neurons in the Frontal Lobe of Indian Gray Mongoose (Herpestes edwardsii)

Abstract

Nissl and Golgi staining techniques have been employed to explore the neuronal subtypes in frontal lobe of Indian gray mongoose. A wide study of sixth layer in cerebral cortex of gyrencephalic and lissencephalic brains of mammals pointed out that pyramidal neurons are the dominant projection neuron in the cortical region and contribute to major neuronal circuitry. Frontal lobe well connected with other cortical and subcortical brain structures have been related with coordination of motor behaviour. Studies related to mammalian cortices focused mainly on pyramidal neurons, however, the details for other neuronal classes have gained less attention. Hence the aim of the present study was to explore different types of neuronal classes within frontal lobe of mongoose. Eleven types of neurons were identified in the mongoose frontal isocortex on the basis of morphology as seen in the Golgi-impregnated sections. Diversity of neuronal subtypes in frontal lobe of mongoose adds to the integration ability of sensory inputs and better processing. The specialized neuronal features observed in frontal lobe have been correlated with better decision making and attention skills thereby providing improved skills for prey and predator mode of action in mongoose.