Neural circuit dynamics of special navigation systems

Principal Investigator

Ryo Sasaki
Professor, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, The National Institutes of Natural Sciences
The purpose of this research is to elucidate the neural circuit dynamics involved in multi-hierarchical decision-making underlying spatial cognitive navigation systems. In order to achieve this aim, this study will develop a measurement that can quantify multi-hierarchical decision-making strategies. We also utilize optogenetics and computational decoding analysis to identify therapeutic targets for brain diseases that inhibit optimal information integration and flexible behavioral strategies. Specific research methods include: 1) establishing a specific measurement for spatial cognitive navigation tasks utilizing virtual reality (VR) system, 2) clarifying the strategic nature of spatial cognitive navigation systems operated by multiple brain areas, and 3) controlling spatial cognitive navigation systems by optogenetical multiple neural circuits manipulation.