Neocortical representational dynamics in adult primates: implications for neuropsychology

Some evidence for functional reorganization of cortical somatosensory representations in adult primates is reviewed. These examples include representation remodeling in cortical area 3b following digit amputation, digit fusion, local intracortical microstimulation, restricted cortical lesions, or as a consequence of behaviorally controlled stimulation of restricted hand surfaces. We suggest that the profound changes in the cortical representations that have been observed after these and other manipulations must bear consequences for the specific behaviors that depend on the operation of this neural machinery. Furthermore, this lifelong dynamic cortical capacity for neuronal response adaptation by use almost certainly also underlies the progressive representational remodeling that we have recorded following brain lesions.