How brains use vision to understand movement
Integrating visual counterevidence to detect self-motion in a small visual circuit
['FUNDING_R01'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11053527
This project explores how brains combine different visual signals to sense movement, using fruit flies to uncover basic principles.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | YALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11053527 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our brains constantly use visual information to understand if we are moving or if the world around us is moving. This project uses fruit flies to understand how their small brains process these visual cues, especially when there's conflicting information. By studying the fly's brain circuits and the rules they follow, we hope to learn fundamental ways that brains estimate self-motion. This work could reveal new insights into how visual systems work, potentially applying to human brain function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation but aims to advance our general understanding of brain function.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical interventions would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide a deeper understanding of how the brain processes visual information related to movement, which might eventually help in understanding and treating human brain disorders affecting perception and navigation.
How similar studies have performed: This project proposes new approaches to studying how animals estimate self-motion, particularly by integrating conflicting visual evidence, which current models do not fully explain.
Where this research is happening
NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES
- YALE UNIVERSITY — NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CLARK, DAMON ALISTAIR — YALE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: CLARK, DAMON ALISTAIR
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions: Brain Diseases, Brain Disorders