The proposed research in sensory coding is a necessary first step in a rigorous approach to understanding how the visual signals that encode real visual scenes are transformed into the physiological correlate of perception or awareness. The proposed research aims to: 1) develop a novel experimental method for decoding and interpreting neural activity in individual channels of the primate lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN); 2) evaluate a simple nonlinear model of precortical visual processing that explains the results obtained in (1) using just the principles of monotonicity and differentiation, two common properties of precortical neurons in many sensory systems including the visual system. The proposed experiments will be performed in rhesus monkeys, a practical model for human perception. The monkey model will also expedite the use of experimental results in the design of visual-neural prosthetic devices aimed at restoring sight in humans.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Type
Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F31)
Project #
5F31MH012037-02
Application #
2890053
Study Section
Cognitive Functional Neuroscience Review Committee (CFN)
Program Officer
Goldschmidts, Walter L
Project Start
1999-04-23
Project End
Budget Start
1999-04-23
Budget End
1999-11-22
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
1999
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Emory University
Department
Type
Other Domestic Higher Education
DUNS #
042250712
City
Atlanta
State
GA
Country
United States
Zip Code
30322