Understanding Perception in the Brain
Author Information
Author(s): Kanai Ryota, Carmel David, Bahrami Bahador, Rees Geraint
Primary Institution: UCL Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London
Hypothesis
The anterior right superior parietal cortex plays a causal role in structure-from-motion perception similar to its role in binocular rivalry.
Conclusion
Different regions within the right superior parietal cortex have opposing roles in controlling bistable perception.
Supporting Evidence
- Disruption of anterior SPL activity led to faster perceptual switching.
- Disruption of posterior SPL activity led to slower perceptual switching.
- Previous studies reported contradictory effects of TMS on bistable perception.
Takeaway
When we see things that can look like two different things, different parts of our brain help us switch between those views, and they can work in opposite ways.
Methodology
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) was applied to different locations in the right superior parietal cortex to observe effects on perceptual switching.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the small sample size and the specific locations targeted for stimulation.
Limitations
The study's findings may not generalize to all forms of bistable perception or to different stimulation protocols.
Participant Demographics
Eight healthy volunteers participated in the study.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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