COMPASS: Computations for Orientation and Motion Perception in Altered Sensorimotor States.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Computational Biology
• Sensory Perception

Background:

• The central nervous system (CNS) must adapt to environmental changes for reliable self-motion and orientation perception.
• Current understanding of CNS adaptation mechanisms is conceptual, hindering quantitative prediction and mitigation of impairments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement a computational model of the CNS's adaptation to changes in gravitational magnitude.
• To quantitatively predict orientation perception adaptation to altered gravity, inspired by space exploration.

Main Methods:

• Proposed a model where the CNS considers parallel hypotheses of gravity magnitude.
• Utilized sensory conflict signals and Bayes rule to sequentially update hypothesis probabilities.
• Simulated the model to predict adaptation to altered gravity conditions.

Main Results:

• The model demonstrates how an internal estimate of gravity magnitude is updated over time.
• Generated quantitative predictions of orientation perception system adaptation.
• Simulations mirrored adaptation patterns observed in altered gravity environments.

Conclusions:

• The CNS likely uses parallel hypotheses and Bayesian inference for gravity adaptation in orientation perception.
• The computational model provides testable hypotheses for future experimental validation.
• Findings offer insights into sensory adaptation relevant to spaceflight and neurological conditions.