Retinal waves are required for state-dependent visual processing

Spontaneous activity in the form of retinal waves propagates throughout the developing visual system during the first two weeks of life in the mouse. Here, we apply a range of approaches to the visual cortex of a unique mouse model, the Beta2fl/fl; Pax6α-Cre model, in which retinal waves are disrupted during the first week of life. We find that spontaneous activity during development is necessary for establishing neuronal transcription, synaptic connectivity, and function in the maturing brain.