How the Brain Processes Visual Signals for Behavior
Processing and transformation of visual signals in the superior colliculus
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-11083595
This work explores how the brain's superior colliculus processes visual information to help us respond to what we see.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11083595 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our brains constantly take in visual information and turn it into actions, like looking away from a bright light or reaching for an object. This project focuses on a key area in the midbrain, called the superior colliculus, which acts as a control center for these visually guided behaviors. We want to understand how different visual signals are combined and transformed in this area to produce appropriate responses. By looking at how the brain reacts to things like sudden movements or approaching objects, we hope to uncover the basic rules of how our vision guides our actions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational neuroscience work does not involve direct patient participation at this stage.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or therapies would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this foundational work could lead to a deeper understanding of how the brain processes vision, which might eventually help those with visual processing disorders or conditions affecting visually guided behavior.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon existing fundamental visual research to explore specific neural pathways in more detail.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — Los Angeles, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TAO, HUIZHONG WHIT — UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
- Study coordinator: TAO, HUIZHONG WHIT
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.