Brain-computer interfaces for basic science

old_uid14415
titleBrain-computer interfaces for basic science
start_date2017/09/22
schedule11h30
onlineno
location_infoAmphi Broca
detailsInvitant : Nicolas Mallet, Research Scientist CNRS, Institute of Neurodegenerative Diseases - CNRS UMR 5293
summaryBrain-computer interfaces (BCI) translate neural activity into movements of a computer cursor or robotic limb. BCIs are known for their ability to assist paralyzed patients. A lesser known, but increasingly important, use of BCIs is their ability to further our basic scientific understanding of brain function. In particular, BCIs are providing insights into the neural mechanisms underlying sensorimotor control that are currently difficult to obtain using limb movements. I will demonstrate this advantage of BCI using two studies. The first involves identifying a network-level explanation for why learning some tasks is easier than others. The second involves the use of internal models identified from neural population activity to explain why subjects make movement errors. These findings deepen our understanding of how neurons interact during learning, an suggest ways to accelerate learning of everyday skills.
responsiblesDeris