" Exploring primary visual vortex with adaptive and optogenetic techniques"

 "Exploring primary visual vortex with adaptive and optogenetic techniques"

 

Abstract:  Vision results from computations in the eye and brain. We seek to understand these computations and their neural implementation. Color vision is a particularly attractive platform for this endeavor. Color processing is well understood in the early visual system but less so in the cerebral cortex. To make progress on this front, we are using a novel, closed-loop experimental control system to present visual stimuli, measure neural responses, and automatically select new stimuli on the basis of these responses. We are also using optogenetic techniques to manipulate the electrical activity of cortical neurons and to affect visually guided behavior.