Models of visual topographic map alignment in the Superior Colliculus (Tikidji-Hamburyan et al 2016)


We develop two novel computational models of visual map alignment in the SC that incorporate distinct activity-dependent components. First, a Correlational Model assumes that V1 inputs achieve alignment with established retinal inputs through simple correlative firing mechanisms. A second Integrational Model assumes that V1 inputs contribute to the firing of SC neurons during alignment. Both models accurately replicate in vivo findings in wild type, transgenic and combination mutant mouse models, suggesting either activity-dependent mechanism is plausible.

Region(s) or Organism(s): Superior colliculus

Model Concept(s): Connectivity matrix; Development; Vision

Simulation Environment: Cython; Python

Implementer(s): Tikidji-Hamburyan, Ruben [ruben.tikidji.hamburyan at gmail.com]

References:

Tikidji-Hamburyan RA, El-Ghazawi TA, Triplett JW. (2016). Novel Models of Visual Topographic Map Alignment in the Superior Colliculus. PLoS computational biology 12 [PubMed]