The time course of experience-dependent synaptic switching of visual connections in Xenopus laevis

Following the rotation of one larval eye in Xenopus laevis, the pattern of functional connections linking the two optic tecta may change. The time necessary for the elaboration of the new pattern of connections was studied by mapping the connections at various time intervals after the right eye had been rotated by 90°, this eye rotation being performed at stage 63. The minimal time necessary for the emergence of a new pattern of intertectal connections was of the order of 8-12 days. Visual deprivation during this period prevented the development of a new pattern of intertectal connections.