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bioRxiv · 10.64898/2026.01.21.700949

A genetically defined midbrain-pontine circuit gates vocal communication

Liao, Q.·Xu, R.·Yang, Q.·Huang, W.·ZHANG, X.
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Abstract

Vocal communication is selectively expressed in social and emotional contexts1-3, suggesting the presence of neural substrates that gate the conversion of internal states into vocal motor output. Although the periaqueductal gray (PAG) is known to be essential for vocalization4-6, the genetic identity and circuit logic of the neurons that initiate and shape vocal signals remain unclear. Here, we identify a genetically defined population of somatostatin-expressing neurons in the lateral and ventrolateral PAG (l/vlPAGSST) that functions as a premotor gate for ultrasonic vocalizations in mice. In vivo calcium imaging shows that l/vlPAGSST neurons are selectively recruited around vocal onset. Manipulating l/vlPAGSST neuron activity bidirectionally regulates vocal output: activation prolongs call duration by coordinating respiratory, laryngeal, and orofacial motor programs, whereas silencing suppresses courtship vocalizations. Projection-specific manipulations further demonstrate that descending glutamatergic, but not neuropeptidergic, output from l/vlPAGSST neurons to the dorsal pontine tegmentum is sufficient to drive vocal production. Together, these findings define a genetically specified midbrain-pontine circuit that gates vocal communication and provides prospective access for linking internal conditions to vocal expressions.

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Liao, Q., Xu, R., Yang, Q., Huang, W., ZHANG, X.. 2026-01-22. A genetically defined midbrain-pontine circuit gates vocal communication. https://doi.org/10.64898/2026.01.21.700949

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