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Inversion effects in face-selective cortex with combinations of face parts
Thomas W James1, Lindsay R Arcurio, Jason M Gold
1Indiana University, IN, USA. thwjames@indiana.edu
Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience
|October 17, 2012
Summary
The face inversion effect is not solely processed in the fusiform face area (FFA). Behavioral and fMRI data suggest the inferior frontal gyrus plays a key role in processing inverted facial features.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Psychology
- Perception
Background:
- The face inversion effect is a key phenomenon used to argue for specialized face processing.
- The fusiform face area (FFA) is often claimed to be the neural substrate for face-specific processing responsible for this effect.
- Previous studies primarily used whole faces, limiting understanding of feature-based processing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neural and behavioral basis of the face inversion effect using discrete facial features.
- To determine if the FFA is responsible for feature-based or configural processing underlying the face inversion effect.
- To compare FFA activation patterns with behavioral responses to inverted facial stimuli.
Main Methods:
- Behavioral experiments measuring inversion effects for whole faces, single features, and feature combinations.
- Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to measure brain activation during face perception.
- Analysis of activation in the FFA and other face-related brain regions.
Main Results:
- Behavioral inversion effects were observed for whole faces and feature combinations (eyes-mouth, eyes-nose-mouth), but not for single eyes.
- FFA activation showed an inversion effect only for whole faces, not matching behavioral findings.
- The bilateral inferior frontal gyrus exhibited activation patterns consistent with behavioral inversion effects.
Conclusions:
- The findings challenge the notion that the FFA is the primary site for face-specific feature-based or configural processing.
- The results suggest the FFA may have a preference for processing whole, upright faces.
- The inferior frontal gyrus appears to be involved in processing the face inversion effect, particularly with feature combinations.
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