A research team, led by Dr. Lee Seung-Hee, Associate Director of the Institute for Basic Science (IBS), has uncovered a fundamental principle of how the brain prioritizes vision and hearing differently depending on whether we are still or in motion. The study provides new insights into the brain's sensory decision-making processes and how they adapt to behavioral states.In daily life, we constantly process visual and auditory (听觉的) information to explore the world. For example, when watching a movie, the brain integrates images and sounds to create a unified experience. However, during movement-such as walking down a busy street-the brain may prioritize visual input over sound to avoid obstacles.Until now, the neural mechanisms (神经机制) behind this sensory prioritization remained unclear. Understanding this process is particularly important for individuals with sensory processing disorders. such as autism or schizophrenia, where the brain. may grapple with integrating sensory information effectively. By uncovering how the brain naturally shifts between sensory inputs, researchers hope to pave the way for better treatment for these conditions.To investigate this phenomenon, the research. team conducted behavioral experiments on mice, monitoring real-time brain activity using miniature microscopes and optogenetics, a technique that uses light to control neurons. The mice were trained to respond to both visual and auditory cues while either stationary or running on a treadmill.The results revealed a striking shift in sensory reliance: When stationary, the ice relied more on auditory cues to make decisions. When moving, their brains prioritized visual input. This suggests that the brain dynamically adjusts sensory weighting based on behavioral context. Sound may be more useful for detecting nearby events when still, whereas vision becomes critical during movement for spatial navigation and stability.This discovery could have important implications for understanding and treating sensory processing disorders, where the brain may struggle to properly prioritize sensory inputs. Dr. Lee explained, "Our findings demonstrate how the brain flexibly shifts between vision and hearing depending on behavior. Understanding this natural adaptability could lead to improved treatments for those with sensory integration difficulties."
(1)
What was the main focus of Dr. Lee's research?
A . How behavior boosts the brain function.
B . How physical state affects sensory focus.
C . How information is processed by the brain.
D . How sensory input guides decision-making.
(2)
What do the underlined words "grapple with" in paragraph 3 probably mean?
A . Result in.
B . Put off.
C . Struggle with.
D . Speed up.
(3)
How did the researchers investigate sensory prioritization in mice?
A . By tracking their brain activity during sensory tasks.
B . By monitoring their adaptation to light and sound.
C . By recording their instant reactions to movement.
D . By comparing corresponding human behavior.
(4)
What is the significance of the research?
A . Advancing treatments for sensory processing disorders.
B . Clarifying debates about humans' adaptability.
C . Enhancing the brain's processing efficiency.
D . Developing sensory integration techniques.
答案: B
C
A
A