Feedback interactions between neuronal pointers and maps for attentional processing

Neural networks combining local excitatory feedback with recurrent inhibition are valuable models of neocortical processing. However, incorporating the attentional modulation observed in cortical neurons is problematic. We propose a simple architecture for attentional processing. Our network consists of two reciprocally connected populations of excitatory neurons; a large population (the map) processes a feedforward sensory input, and a small population (the pointer) modulates location and intensity of this processing in an attentional manner dependent on a control input to the pointer. This pointer-map network has rich dynamics despite its simple architecture and explains general computational features related to attention/intention observed in neocortex, making it interesting both theoretically and experimentally.