RUI: The Neural Mediation of Left-Right Response Differentiation

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The ability to perform a task which involves a choice of right versus left depends upon connections between the two sides of the brain. These connections are carried by a bundle of nerve fibers called the corpus callosum. in this award Dr. Noonan will investigate the effects on right-left discrimination of surgical disruption of the corpus callosum and selective damage to various areas of the neocortex which are interconnected by the corpus callosum. His previous work has shown that surgical disruption of brain pathways which interconnect the two hemispheres can actually improve right-left differentiation and this award will explore more precisely the anatomical localization of that phenomenon. Many aspects of the research will be performed by undergraduate students, who will receive valuable experience in basic scientific work. This research will contribute to understanding the brain processes which are responsible for mediating spatial information that allows an individual to navigate successfully in the environment.