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Published on: July 14, 2016
Electrical microstimulation thresholds for behavioral detection and saccades in monkey frontal eye fields
Dona K Murphey1, John H R Maunsell
1Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Summary
Monkeys could detect frontal eye field (FEF) stimulation below saccade thresholds, suggesting FEF involvement in perception and attention beyond just eye movements.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- The frontal eye field (FEF) is primarily known for its role in controlling saccadic eye movements.
- Emerging evidence suggests the FEF also plays a crucial part in visual perception and attention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the sensory detection capabilities of the FEF.
- To determine if FEF microstimulation is detectable at currents below those that elicit eye movements.
Main Methods:
- Electrical microstimulation was applied to the FEF in monkeys.
- Stimulation currents were varied to assess detection thresholds versus saccade generation thresholds.
Main Results:
- FEF neuronal stimulation was detectable at currents lower than those required for saccade generation.
- A strong correlation was observed between the current needed for detection and the current needed for saccade generation.
Conclusions:
- FEF neurons may represent the preparation for specific saccades.
- Awareness of these preparations can occur even without overt eye movements, indicating a role in perception and attention.
