Neural basis of visual information processing in the retrosplenial cortex

• Applicant: Dr. Chryssanthi Tsitoura
• Subject Area: Cognitive, Systems and Behavioural Neurobiology
• Term: from 2019 to 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 424582377

The retrosplenial cortex (RSP) is a multisensory area exhibiting pronounced reciprocal connections with visual areas. It has emerged as part of a core network of brain regions involved in spatial navigation and orientation. It is also reciprocally connected with brain regions that map space in egocentric and allocentric reference frames, and is proposed to mediate translation between these two forms of spatial representation. A systematic functional characterization of visual responses in RSP neurons, however, is lacking. The research proposed in this project aims to provide a deeper understanding of visual processing in RSP and its role in visual-based spatial navigation. To achieve this goal, I will use a combination of multidisciplinary state-of-the-art techniques. These include application of genetic tools and anatomical techniques to explore the laminar and regional specificity of brain-wide connectivity of RSP, as well as physiological techniques to functionally characterize visual inputs to and responses in RSP. Finally, I will elevate the study to the behavioral level to determine how divergent visual inputs to RSP aid in visual-based spatial navigation. This study will advance our understanding of one of the most essential behaviors: the capacity to navigate in an environment, i.e. to plan and execute a goal-directed path. It will also contribute to our knowledge of the mechanisms behind the neural network computations that control behavior, thus addressing a key goal of neuroscience research.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: United Kingdom
• Host: Professor Dr. Troy Margrie