Neural mechanisms of water flow perception and spatial integration

该项目旨在开发一种新的斑马鱼平台，用于阐明调节侧线知觉的回路。目前对鱼类探测和响应水流的感觉模式知之甚少。该项目在斑马鱼模型中提出了一种新的制备方法，利用微流控技术控制水流，从而刺激侧线。因为动物保持静止，所以有可能对对水流做出反应的细胞和回路进行全脑钙成像，并利用光遗传学来刺激或沉默这些神经元。这将以一种以前不可能的方式揭示调节心流知觉的回路，以及它与其他感官的关系。

This project aims to develop a novel zebrafish platform for elucidating the circuits that mediate lateral line perception. The sensory modality by which fish detect and respond to water flow is poorly understood. This project proposes a novel preparation in the zebrafish model for applying controlled water flow using microfluidics, thereby stimulating the lateral line. Because the animal remains stationary, it is possible to perform whole-brain calcium imaging of cells and circuits that respond to water flow, and to use optogenetics to stimulate or silence these neurons. This will reveal the circuitry mediating flow perception, and its relationship with other senses, in a way that has been previously impossible.