Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 20, 2026
07:11
Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) of the Visual Cortex with Wide-View Retinotopic Stimulation
Published on: December 8, 2023
Retinotopic organization of human ventral visual cortex
Michael J Arcaro1, Stephanie A McMains, Benjamin D Singer
1Department of Psychology, Center for the Study of Brain, Mind, and Behavior, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08540, USA.
Summary
Researchers discovered two new visual field maps, parahippocampal areas PHC-1 and PHC-2, in the human ventral visual cortex. These areas are anterior to the ventral occipital (VO) cluster and show a preference for scene stimuli.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Visual Perception
- Brain Mapping
Background:
- The human ventral visual cortex contains visual field maps like VO-1 and VO-2, forming the ventral occipital (VO) cluster.
- The VO cluster is known for its preferential response to color and object stimuli.
Purpose of the Study:
- To confirm the characteristics of the VO cluster.
- To identify and describe new visual field maps anterior to the VO cluster.
Main Methods:
- Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to study visual field maps.
- Topographic and functional properties of visual areas were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Two new visual field maps, parahippocampal areas PHC-1 and PHC-2, were identified anterior to the VO cluster.
- PHC-1 and PHC-2 contain topographic representations of contralateral visual space.
- These new areas show a strong preference for scene stimuli and overlap with the parahippocampal place area.
Conclusions:
- The ventral visual cortex has more discrete visual field maps than previously recognized.
- PHC-1 and PHC-2 contribute to the processing of visual information, particularly scenes.
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