Title: "Functional properties of neural circuits for vision".

W. Martin Usrey

Center for Neuroscience

University of California, Davis

Abstract:

Although the visual response properties of neurons along the retinogeniculocortical pathway have been studied for decades, relatively few studies have examined how individual neurons along the pathway communicate with each other. Recent studies now show that the strength of these connections is very dynamic and spike timing plays an important role in determining whether action potentials will be transferred from pre- to postsynaptic cells. In addition to retinal input, LGN neurons also receive massive input from the cerebral cortex. Experiments will be described that explore the functional role of the corticogeniculate feedback pathway.