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Abstract
Through a series of complex transformations, the pixel-like input to the retina is converted into rich visual perceptions that constitute an integral part of visual recognition. Multiple visual problems arise due to damage or developmental abnormalities in the cortex of the brain. Here, we provide an overview of how visual information is processed along the ventral visual cortex in the human brain. We discuss how neurophysiological recordings in macaque monkeys and in humans can help us understand the computations performed by visual cortex.
Authors
Julie Blumberg, Gabriel Kreiman
Figure 1
Schematic illustration of the basic architecture in the primate visual system.
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On the left, we show a schematic diagram of the human brain indicating the approximate location of several brain areas discussed in the text. On the right, we provide a schematic description of some of the main pathways involved in processing visual information in cortex. VP, ventral stream; DP, dorsal stream; RGC, retinal ganglion cells; CIT, central ITC; AIT, anterior ITC; MST, medial superior temporal cortex; POR, post-rolandic area; PR, pre-rolandic area. Solid lines indicate forward projections; dashed lines indicate back-projections; and the curved lines represent recurrent connections within a given area. As emphasized in the text, this diagram is a substantial simplification of the actual connectivity in the primate visual system. Many important visual areas and connections are not represented in this diagram; for more details, see ref. 1 .
Copyright © 2023 American Society for Clinical Investigation
ISSN: 0021-9738 (print), 1558-8238 (online)