LIN Seminar: “Optic flow processing in midbrain-cerebellar circuits for the control of complex locomotion” by Doug Altshuler (University of British Columbia)
April 2, 2026
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Location
SELE 4289
Calendar
Download iCal FilePlease join us at 4pm on April 2, 2o26 in SELE 4289 for a LIN seminar featuring "Optic flow processing in midbrain-cerebellar circuits for the control of complex locomotion" by Dr. Doug Altshuler (University of British Columbia)
Host: Anna Vlasits
Abstract: As we move through the world, we experience optic flow - the motions of surfaces and objects across our retina. Studies of human behaviour reveal that optic flow is used for controlling virtually all aspects of locomotion such as walking, navigating through cluttered environments like forests or airport terminals, and when driving motor vehicles. Despite the importance of optic flow, there is a major gap in our understanding of how these signals are processed in the brain to allow for complex locomotion. Disruptions to optic flow processing in the brain are associated with common diseases including vertigo, oscillopsia, ataxias and Alzheimer's disease. For example, Alzheimer's patients require much stronger optic flow signals to be able to navigate through a series of hallways to find their rooms. For other patients, such as those with vestibular deficits and visual neglect, presentations of optic flow are effective rehabilitative tools. A key challenge to studying optic flow processing in the brain has been a lack of an appropriate animal model. My research group focuses on the flight of small birds because this behaviour can be readily studied in the laboratory and the optic flow pathways are generally conserved with mammals. We apply integrated approaches in electrophysiology, circuit manipulation, and behaviour. I will present results explaining how optic flow is used to guide movement in different environments, how optic flow signals are processed along the pathway from the midbrain to the cerebellum, and how selective silencing of neurons in this pathway leads to deficits in locomotor ability.
Date posted
Sep 18, 2025
Date updated
Feb 12, 2026