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Fetal eye movements in response to a visual stimulus
Tim Donovan1, Kirsty Dunn2, Amy Penman2
1Medical Sciences, University of Cumbria, Lancaster, UK.
Brain and Behavior
|July 2, 2020
Summary
New research shows fetuses exhibit visual attention. Using a novel light source, scientists observed fetal eye movements in response to visual stimuli, indicating directed vision before birth.
Area of Science:
- Fetal Development
- Neuroscience
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Fetal eye movements are observable via ultrasound from 15 weeks gestation.
- The fetal visual system may support directed vision from 31 weeks gestation under sufficient light.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate fetal visual attention mechanisms.
- To determine if fetuses exhibit eye movements independent of head movements in response to visual stimuli.
Main Methods:
- Developed a 650 nm laser diode light source for visual stimuli delivery.
- Analyzed 94 fetal ultrasound scans (mean gestational age 240 days) for eye and head movements.
- Coded movements to assess responses to light stimuli independent of head motion.
Main Results:
- Light stimuli significantly provoked both fetal head and eye movements.
- Fetal eyes continued to move after light withdrawal, while head movements ceased.
Conclusions:
- Demonstrates evidence of visual attention in fetuses.
- Suggests prenatal control of eye movements independent of head movements.
