Brainstem control of sensory information: a mechanism for perception

We have proposed a theory in which pathways ascending from the brainstem reticular formation control sensory centers in the dorsal thalamus and neocortex. We assumed that the sensory messages received at a given level are transformed by a stochastic process, called Alopex, in a way which maximizes responses in central feature analyzers. Perception is seen as a process involving a close cyclic interaction between brainstem and sensory relays. We discuss the specific case of visual information flow and the proposed modification of visual images at the level of the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN). Computer simulations of a simple model, representing the dLGN and reafferent control emanating from the reticular formation, show that sensory features are effectively enhanced and--in the absence of sensory input--quasi-sensory features may be generated by feedback of a simple scalar variable that is formed by the non-linear superposition of the responses of any number of feature analyzers. The model proposes a specific mechanism for such processes as visual imagery, hallucinations, and dreaming, and provides a framework for further studies into the nature of cognitive brain functions.