Vision Function Testing Core

The Vision Function Testing Core provides Vision Function Testing (VFT) Services and provides Electronics Services devoted to the fabrication, maintenance and modification of specialized equipment used by core investigators. 

Brief overview of Vision Function Testing Services

The VFT Services include electrophysiological tests such as the Electroretinogram (ERG) and visually evoked potentials (VEPs) to assess visual function in small mammals.  The VFT module also offers behavior testing to assess visual function. 

ERGs measure light-evoked, electrical activity from the retina to assess rod and cone photoreceptor function, as well as signal transmission from photoreceptors to bipolar cells.  Certain aspects of inner retinal function can also be assessed. 

VEPs are used to assess visual signaling between the retina and the brain.  VEPS are evoked potentials recorded from the visual cortex in response to a flash of light

The OptoMotry system measures visual behavior in untrained, awake animals to test visual accuity and contrast sensitivity (the ability to discern between luminances of different levels). 

Brief overview of Electronics Services

Electronics services include the design, fabrication, modification and repair of specialized electronic equipment. 

Meet The Visual Function Testing Core Team

Core Director

Below is a list of major equipment available through the Vision Function Testing Core

Major Equipment	Location (McMillan)	On-line Reservation	Training required(see Dr. Xiaodong Zhang)
UTAS-E 3000 ERG	605	Yes	Yes
UTAS ‘BigShot’ ERG	605A	Yes	Yes
Optomotry system	606	Yes	Yes

The department also has a Biopitgen small animal OCT system.  Please see the Morphology & Imaging Core  for further information.

Hours of availability:

Please contact the Xiaodong Zhang for training.

After being fully trained, you may sign-up on the FOM website (https:// www.instrumentschedule.com/fom/) to use the facility – first-come, first-serve.