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The neural selection and control of saccades by the frontal eye field
1Center for Integrative and Cognitive Neuroscience, Vanderbilt Vision Research Center, Department of Psychology, 301 Wilson Hall, 111 21st Avenue South, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37203, USA. jeffrey.d.schall@vanderbilt.edu
Abstract:
Recent research has provided new insights into the neural processes that select the target for and control the production of a shift of gaze. Being a key node in the network that subserves visual processing and saccade production, the frontal eye field (FEF) has been an effective area in which to monitor these processes. Certain neurons in the FEF signal the location of conspicuous or meaningful stimuli that may be the targets for saccades. Other neurons control whether and when the gaze shifts. The existence of distinct neural processes for visual selection and saccade production is necessary to explain the flexibility of visually guided behaviour.