Object Selection by Automatic Spreading of Top-Down Attentional Signals in V1

• DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0438-20.2020
• Publication Date: 2020-10-21T21:50:19Z
• Authors: Matthias Ekman; Pieter R. Roelfsema; Floris P. de Lange
• Keywords: Representation; Cued speech

What is selected when attention directed to a specific location of the visual field? Theories object-based have suggested that spatial part an object, does not simply enhance attended but automatically spreads all locations comprise object. Here, we tested this hypothesis by reconstructing distribution from primary cortex (V1) population neuronal activity patterns in 24 human adults (17 female) using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and population-based receptive field (prf) mapping. We find spatially cued underlying enhances Importantly, spreading was also evident object task relevant. These data suggest attentional selection operates at level, facilitating reconstruction coherent objects fragmented representations early cortex. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Object perception astonishing feat system. When information about orientation, shape, color enters through our eyes, it has yet be integrated into representation But which features constitute single belong background? The brain mechanisms underpinning are understood. now demonstrate one candidate mechanism, successive activation parts occurs results detailed following Gestalt principles. Furthermore, automatically, without involving voluntary control.