Subcortico-Cortical Mechanisms of Sensorimotor Coordination, Integration, and Learning

Abstract A long-term goal of my research is to develop a comprehensive understanding of the computational principles, anatomical substrates, and neural mechanisms of sensorimotor function. Our research is guided by the concept of internal models, which provides a unified computational framework for investigating the neural basis of sensorimotor coordination, integration, and learning. Currently, we do not have a comprehensive understanding of how the brain instantiates internal models. Our broad research objective in to elucidate the functional role of the ascending cerebello-thalamocortical (Cb-Th-Ctx) and basal ganglia-thalamocortical (Bg-Th-Ctx) pathways in forming, updating, and using internal models. We will tackle this problem in the nonhuman primate model using a multidisciplinary and cutting-edge approach that leverages (1) a sensorimotor task with suitable variants for investigating the neural basis of sensorimotor coordination, integration, and learning, (2) large-scale multi- region electrophysiology techniques to characterize neural signals with high spatiotemporal resolution across entire subcortico-cortical pathways, and (3) a mathematically rigorous framework to integrate knowledge across scales (cells, circuits, areas) and disciplines (systems, computational), and link computational concepts (e.g., internal models) to directly measurable neurobiological variables (e.g., firing rates). In the next decade, we will use this integrative approach to gain a mechanistic understanding of how Cb-Th-Ctx and Bg-Th-Ctx pathways establish internal models and support adaptive sensorimotor behaviors.