Configural Processing of Biological Motion in Human Superior Temporal Sulcus

• DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2129-05.2005
• Publication Date: 2005-09-28T17:02:55Z
• Authors: James C. Thompson; Michele Clarke; Tennille Stewart; Aina Puce
• Keywords: Biological motion; Torso; Superior temporal sulcus; Sulcus; Superior parietal lobule; Inferior parietal lobule; Stimulus (psychology); Temporal cortex

Observers recognize subtle changes in the movements of others with relative ease. However, tracking a walking human is computationally difficult, because degree articulation high and scene can temporarily occlude parts moving figure. Here, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging to test hypothesis that superior temporal sulcus (STS) uses form cues aid biological movement tracking. The same 10 healthy subjects detected gait mannequin two experiments. In experiment 1, tested effects configural change occlusion. was presented intact or limbs torso apart visual space either unoccluded occluded by set vertical white bars. 2, inversion occlusion were investigated, using an mannequin. Subjects reliably under all stimulus conditions. walker produced significantly greater activation STS, inferior (ITS), parietal cortex walker, regardless Interestingly, STS ITS upright versus inverted not different. contrast, lobule parieto-occipital showed walker. absence body configuration, activity increased independent torso. Our data suggest may use configuration-based model process movement, thus forming representation survives partial