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Published on: November 16, 2017
Modulation of visual processing by attention and emotion: windows on causal interactions between human brain regions
Patrik Vuilleumier1, Jon Driver
1Laboratory of Behavioural Neurology and Imaging of Cognition (LabNIC), Department of Neurosciences, University Medical Centre, 1 Rue Michel-Servet, 1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland. patrik.vuilleumier@medecine.unige.ch
Summary
Attention and emotion influence visual processing via distant brain regions, not just the eyes. New methods reveal causal interactions between brain areas, advancing cognitive neuroscience beyond isolated region studies.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Neuroscience
- Visual Perception
Background:
- Visual processing is modulated by attentional state and emotional significance, beyond retinal input.
- These modulations involve distant brain structures influencing the visual cortex, offering insights into brain interactions.
- Attentional and emotional processing impact neural responses in the visual cortex, particularly for attended or fear-associated stimuli.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence on attentional and emotional modulation of visual processing.
- To explore similarities and differences in how these modulations affect the visual cortex.
- To highlight novel methods for studying causal interactions between brain regions.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent evidence on attentional and emotional modulation.
- Application of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG) in brain-damaged patients.
- Concurrent use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) with fMRI or EEG in healthy individuals.
Main Results:
- Both attention and emotion modulate visual cortex activity, but through different neural pathways (e.g., fronto-parietal vs. amygdala).
- New methodologies enable the study of distant functional impacts of lesions and causal interactions in the healthy brain.
- Evidence supports a shift towards understanding interconnected brain region dynamics rather than isolated functions.
Conclusions:
- Attentional and emotional modulations provide windows into causal interactions between distant brain regions.
- Advanced neuroimaging and stimulation techniques are crucial for investigating these inter-regional influences.
- Cognitive neuroscience is increasingly focused on the causal interplay between distinct brain areas in perception and cognition.
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