Predictive processing in cortical circuits
Our aim is to understand the computational algorithm of cortex
Our research focuses on mouse visual cortex and is guided by the ideas of predictive processing. Sensory input is compared to predictions of sensory input based on these internal models to compute prediction errors. This would mean that much of what we perceive is not the result of what our sensory organs transmit to our brains but either the result of what we expect to perceive or the result of a large deviation from these expectations. Over the course of the past eight years, we have identified some of the circuit elements underlying this computation. However, there are still large gaps in our understanding of the circuits for predictive processing - in the coming years we plan to close these. To do this, we are pursuing three strategies in parallel. First, we will functionally identify the remaining circuit elements postulated to exist by the theory. Second, we will identify molecular markers of the circuit elements we have already identified functionally. Third, we will characterize the functional signature of antipsychotic drugs, which are known to shift the balance between expectation and sensory input in humans, in mouse dorsal cortex.
Circuit neuroscience community Basel
Our lab is based at the FMI in Basel. It is embedded in a vibrant circuit neuroscience community (CNCB) with members across the IOB, the Biocenter, and the DBM.