High-speed videography of embodied active sensing in the rodent whisker system

Abstract

Self-motion is often a major component of sensation. Comprehensive understanding of natural sensory processing in neural systems thus requires neural recording be coupled to high-resolution observation of behavior. The rodent vibrissa (whisker) system has several advantages as a model for network function during sensory behaviors, but only recently have inputs at the whisker level received serious study. This chapter reviews methods for capturing biological motion via high-speed videography, with emphasis on tracking rodent whiskers or other similar processes such as insect antennae. © 2011 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.