16.430
Sensory-Neural Systems: Spatial Orientation from End Organs to Behavior and Adaptation
Spring 2012
This course introduces sensory systems and multi-sensory fusion using the vestibular and spatial orientation systems as a model. Topics range from end organ dynamics to neural responses, to sensory integration, to behavior, and adaptation, with particular application to balance, posture and locomotion under normal gravity and space conditions. Depending upon the background and interests of the students, advanced term project topics might include motion sickness, astronaut adaptation, artificial gravity, lunar surface locomotion, vestibulo-cardiovascular responses, vestibular neural prostheses, or other topics of interest.
Readings
- Goldberg, J. M., and C. Fernandez. “Physiology of Peripheral Neurons Innervating Semicircular Canals of the Squirrel Monkey. I. Resting Discharge and Response to Constant Angular Accelerations.” Journal of Neurophysiology 34, no. 4 (1971): 635–60.
- ———. “Physiology of Peripheral Neurons Innervating Semicircular Canals of the Squirrel Monkey. II. Response to Sinusoidal Stimulation and Dynamics of Peripheral Vestibular System.” Journal of Neurophysiology 34, no. 4 (1971): 661–75.
- Ciuffreda, K. J., and B. Tannen. Chapters 1, 3–5, and 8 in Eye Movement Basics for the Clinician . Mosby, 1995. ISBN: 9780801668432.
- Horak, F. B., and J. M. MacPherson. “Postural Orientation and Equilibrium.” Chapter 7 in Handbook of Physiology: Section 12: Exercise: Regulation and Integration of Multiple Systems . Edited by L. B. Rowell and J. T. Shepherd. American Physiological Society / Oxford University Press, 1996, pp. 255–92. ISBN: 9780195091748.
Sources
- Course catalogue ↗Historical OpenCourseWare
- MIT OCW readings ↗
- MIT OCW syllabus ↗
- Historical MIT OpenCourseWare offering. Named reading entries and schedule topics are automatically extracted from the linked source pages.