Modeling Smooth Pursuit Eye-Movement Deficits in Macular Degeneration

Model of smooth pursuit

The project investigates deficits in smooth pursuit in individuals with age-related macular degeneration within the framework of a Bayesian model. Specifically, we are analyzing the effect of target visibility (due to disappearance into the scotoma) and oculomotor effects of an eccentric preferred retinal locus (PRL) on smooth pursuit eye movements, as well as the effects of both factors combined. Modeling these detrminents to smooth pursuit could inform targeted therapies for AMD, taking the individual impairments of the patient into account and helping to improve their day-to-day lives.