(A) visual circuit organization guides predatory chasing behavior

Abstract

Visuo-motor transformation is one of the most important function for goal-directed behaviors such as predatory hunting in animals. Superior colliculus (SC) has been known to be a critical brain region for hunting by mediating eye and head orientation, but the underlying circuit network and functional mechanism are remained unclear. Here we find the retinotopically differentiated input and output circuit organization of the SC controls the head direction for adjusting a target prey to be in the center of the visual field. We also find the visual components of the object which can elicit hunting-like approaching and chasing by introducing virtual chamber system. The findings explain how the visual circuit organization guides the head direction for successful hunting, and which visual components trigger those goal-directed behavior.