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A neural basis for interindividual differences in the McGurk effect, a multisensory speech illusion
Audrey R Nath1, Michael S Beauchamp
1Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston TX 77030, USA.
Neuroimage
|July 27, 2011
Summary
The McGurk effect, an audiovisual speech illusion, varies in perception. Brain imaging reveals the left superior temporal sulcus (STS) is crucial for this speech perception difference.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Audiology
Background:
- The McGurk effect demonstrates audiovisual speech perception, where auditory and visual speech signals conflict.
- Individual differences exist in McGurk effect susceptibility, with some individuals not experiencing the illusion.
- The left superior temporal sulcus (STS) is implicated in audiovisual speech integration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neural basis of interindividual differences in McGurk effect perception.
- To identify brain regions associated with susceptibility to the McGurk illusion.
Main Methods:
- Utilized blood-oxygen level dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging (BOLD fMRI) to measure brain activity.
- Compared brain responses in McGurk perceivers and non-perceivers.
- Presented participants with congruent, McGurk, and incongruent audiovisual syllables.
Main Results:
- The inferior frontal gyrus responded to stimulus incongruence, irrespective of susceptibility.
- The left auditory cortex showed heightened activity in susceptible individuals, independent of stimulus type.
- The left superior temporal sulcus (STS) exhibited responses influenced by both stimulus condition and individual susceptibility.
Conclusions:
- The left STS plays a critical role in audiovisual speech perception and mediates individual differences in McGurk effect susceptibility.
- Neural response amplitude in the left STS correlates with the likelihood of experiencing the McGurk effect.
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