Plasticity of thalamocortical axons is regulated by serotonin levels modulated by preterm birth

Brain functioning relies on circuits that begin to assemble prenatally and are remodeled during postnatal life. In particular, sensory information is conveyed to cortical areas via thalamocortical axons (TCA), which are shaped by embryonic guidance and postnatal plasticity. Elucidating the mechanisms underlying TCA wiring is critical for our understanding of sensory circuit development. Here, we revealed the existence of a short time window of plasticity that supports the correction of TCA embryonic mistargeting. We furthermore show that this period is sensitive to serotonin levels, which are modulated by preterm birth. Our study highlights a birth and serotonin-sensitive period of plasticity, key for the rescue of prenatal miswiring, thereby providing insights into physiological and pathological brain wiring.