NSC 539 Visual Neuroscience

Updated Course Description --- This course explores visual systems as a model for understanding complex brain functions and discusses methods used to unravel these functions. We will examine how the brains of different organisms processes visual information related to brightness, motion, depth, and color among others, and how this information is used to guide behavior and create perceptual experiences. The course combines lectures and literature seminars emphasizing the architecture and evolution of visual systems across animal species, particularly insects and mammals, including primates. The course will focus on how visual systems are adapted to support survival in natural environments. ----- Introduction to the course and visual neuroscience: Overview of visual systems. Evolutionary perspectives.

Photoreceptors and transduction mechanisms.

Early visual processing (retina and equivalent structures in invertebrates/insects) - Part 1.

Early visual processing - Part 2.

Early visual processing - Part 3.

Intermediate stages of visual processing (e.g. lateral geniculate nucleus).

Overview of central visual processing in the cortex of mammals and high brain structures in invertebrates/insects.

Parallel pathways for motion vision, depth perception, color vision and polarized light vision - Part 1.

Parallel pathways for motion vision, depth perception, color vision and polarized light vision - Part2.

Parallel pathways for motion vision, depth perception, color vision and polarized light vision - Part 3.

Internal states, attention, feedback mechanisms, Part 1.

Internal states, attention, feedback mechanisms, Part 2.

Internal states, attention, feedback mechanisms, Part 3.

Course summary and expectations for final knowledge assessment.