Driving the Locus Coeruleus: Pupillometry in a Driving Simulation Paradigm
Publication Date
December 12, 2025
Creator
Abstract
A naturalistic and continuous driving simulation paradigm is presented as a novel method for investigating the function of the locus coeruleus norepinephrine (LC-NE) system and its modulation of cognition and behaviour. The LC is one of the earliest sites of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) related pathology, while the LC-NE system modulates multiple cognitive functions known to decline in ageing and AD. This paradigm provides a novel way of probing the LC-NE under conditions requiring attention, memory, and decision-making with the use of pupillometry and embedded psychological tasks. Pupil diameter results suggest an LC role in monitoring task demands and responding to errors, as predicted by the Adaptive Gain Theory (Aston-Jones & Cohen, 2005). The novel finding of a gradual increase in pupil diameter in response to the approach of a cognitively demanding situation was made possible by our continuous design. Significant pupil dilation responses to decision-making events support a role of the LC-NE, and the ability of this paradigm to examine its function.
Item Type
ethesis
Thesis Type
MPhil
Supervisors
Associated Schools / Departments
School of Psychology (UK)
eprints ID
80393
UoN Repository URI
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Name
Thesis16Jan25CharlotteAskey.pdf
Type
Full-text
Description
Examined. Resubmission for MPhil including amendments
Size
1.69 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
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