Objective
The brain processes information through coordinated neuronal activity. This project proposal is aimed at unraveling the coding principles for sensory input by leveraging on three recent technological advances: two-photon imaging, optogenetics and holographic two-photon stimulation. These provide crucial advantages over existing methodology: (i), the use of two-photon imaging allows recording of neuronal activity with single-cell resolution from hundreds of neurons simultaneously; (ii) optogenetic tools permit one select cell type to be both observed and manipulated concurrently in order to probe its specific function in the circuit; and (iii) holographic two-photon stimulation enables the simultaneous manipulation of large numbers of neurons in three-dimensional optical patterns.
The neuronal coding strategies used in somatosensory processing in the neocortex can be studied by combining these techniques. The project will address the long-standing question of whether primary sensory input is encoded by the overall amplitude (rate code) or the precise timing (temporal code) of neuronal activity. Specifically, we will measure neuronal activity evoked by a somatosensory discrimination task in head-fixed, awake, behaving mice using expressed fluorescent calcium ion sensors. We will then employ genetically encoded, light-sensitive ion channels to selectively activate sets of identified neurons. By recording the effect of these manipulations on neuronal activity and task performance, we will determine to what extent rate and temporal codes are necessary and sufficient to represent primary sensory input.
Taken together, these experiments will allow us to quantify the relative importance of rate vs temporal codes in somatosensory perception. Although we will conduct our experiments in the rodent somatosensory cortex, the all-optical approach outlined here is likely to become central for the study of other sensory modalities and cortical function in general.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- natural sciences chemical sciences inorganic chemistry alkaline earth metals
- social sciences sociology social issues social inequalities
- engineering and technology electrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineering electronic engineering sensors
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Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
FP7-PEOPLE-2013-CIG
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Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
MC-CIG - Support for training and career development of researcher (CIG)
Coordinator
OX1 2JD Oxford
United Kingdom
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.