Neural processing of communication signals in the auditory brainstem

• Applicant: Dr. Katrin Vonderschen
• Subject Area: Cognitive, Systems and Behavioural Neurobiology
• Term: from 2012 to 2015
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 229088202

Numerous vertebrate species rely on acoustic signals to communicate. It is vital to know where the sound comes from, what it represents and when it is received. The auditory system segregates and processes the incoming sounds in this manner. Today we have detailed knowledge of sound localization, and some understanding of the spectral analysis of sounds, but we know very little about the encoding of the temporal structure. Most communication sounds, such as human speech, fluctuate over time and psychophysical studies have demonstrated that the auditory system makes use of this coarse temporal pattern to perceive verbal communication. How the brain accomplishes this and what neural specializations are underlying the analysis of communication sounds remains enigmatic.To date it is unclear which neural circuitry is devoted to the processing of speech timing cues. A likely candidate for this is the superior paraolivary nucleus (SPON) in the auditory brainstem as its neurons respond to fluctuations and gaps in acoustic signals. With a three-pronged behavioral, in vitro and in vivo physiological approach, I will test the hypothesis that the SPON extracts communication patterns in mice and investigate the underlying neural mechanisms. Understanding the basis for neural processing of temporal communication patterns in these animals will open up new lines of research. Transgenic mice may then be used for fine-tuned experimental designs in which the role of single proteins for speech processing can be addressed and ultimately lead to new clinical approaches in curing speech and learning disorders.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: Sweden
• Host: Professorin Dr. Anna K. Magnusson