Effect of spatial auditory cues on visual perception and saccade execution in common marmoset (Callthrix jacchus)

Author(s)

Luan Zimmermann Bortoluzzi

• Document type: Master's Dissertation
• Press: São Paulo.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Instituto de Biociências (IBIOC/SB)
• Defense date: 2021-08-20

Examining board members

Gustavo Rohenkohl; André Mascioli Cravo; Mirella Gualtieri; André Frazão Helene

• Advisor: Gustavo Rohenkohl

Abstract

The ability of allocating attention to certain spatial locations in space is fundamental for visual behavior. In this study, we aimed to investigate some important aspects related to Attention. In the first chapter, we present a review on the relation between eye movements and attention, and discuss how this relation influences our visual perception. With this review, we were able to identify some gaps in the field and to contribute to the possible dissociation of pre-saccadic attention from covert attention. The common marmoset, despite being less studied than other primates - such as humans and Macaca - has generated growing interest in researchers from different neuroscience subareas, including the visual neuroscience. In the second chapter, we aimed to test the attentional capabilities and limitations of the common marmoset in a multisensory attentional task. In the task, animals were trained to detect visual targets preceded by auditory congruent and incongruent - spatial cues. Contrary to expectations, the auditory cue did not facilitate the target detection. We discuss some methodological aspects that might account for this null result. Future studies must take into account the problems mentioned here, so we can consolidate the common marmoset as an animal model in the attentional neuroscience. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 19/02047-0 - Effect of spatial auditory cues on visual perception and saccade execution in common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus)
• Grantee: Luan Zimmermann Bortoluzzi
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master