Protocol for recording visual maps in the mouse superior colliculus and visual cortex with intrinsic optical imaging

Intrinsic optical imaging (IOI) is a powerful approach to record visual-functional maps across the mouse superior colliculus (SC) and primary visual cortex (V1). Here, we present a protocol to map retinotopy and orientation preference in the SC within 15 min using periodic stimulation and Fourier analysis. We also describe how to obtain ocular dominance maps in V1 from independent monocular stimulation. We provide detailed instructions for surgical preparation, imaging setup, and preprocessing techniques. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Visser et al. 1 • Step-by-step instructions for SC surgical access and through-skull imaging of V1 • Implementing, performing, and analyzing intrinsic optical imaging data • Using periodic visual stimulation to compute retinotopic phase maps Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics. Intrinsic optical imaging (IOI) is a powerful approach to record visual-functional maps across the mouse superior colliculus (SC) and primary visual cortex (V1). Here, we present a protocol to map retinotopy and orientation preference in the SC within 15 min using periodic stimulation and Fourier analysis. We also describe how to obtain ocular dominance maps in V1 from independent monocular stimulation. We provide detailed instructions for surgical preparation, imaging setup, and preprocessing techniques.