FSSHH Returns this fall on Friday Setp 11, 2009. Sabyasachi Roy will be presenting at Talbot Library (Traylor 709)
Abstract:
Application of multi-channel telemetry in auditory neurophysiology & behavior
The neural basis of vocal control and auditory feedback has long interested neuroscientist and biomedical engineers alike. Our lab has focused on studying the cortical neural activity in the common marmoset in understanding this basic sensory-motor system. The marmoset monkeys (Callithrix Jacchus) is an ideal animal model given the fact that they remain highly vocal in captivity. This essential vocal behavior is primarily elicited when the subject is in a natural behavior state i.e. free roaming condition. Typically, neurophysiological experiments on vocal production and feedback have involved either restrained subjects or tethered setups that severely restrict the behavior of the subject. This is where multi-channel neural telemetry can play a vital role of enabling the vocal behavior of primates during auditory experiments and providing the same quality of neural data as tethered setups. We are developing the essential wireless radio link as well as the backend processing capability to make this technology practical and effective. These small, lightweight wireless devices can continuously transmit multiple channels of neural data from the relevant cortical area of the marmoset while it is engaged in an experimental task. I will briefly highlight our progress in developing custom telemetry system and integrating existing devices as well as the experimental opportunities that this technology opens up.
