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Neuronal plasticity that underlies improvement in perceptual performance
E Zohary1, S Celebrini, K H Britten
1Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA 94305.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|March 4, 1994
Summary
Neuronal plasticity in the visual cortex enhances sensory processing. Practicing a motion discrimination task improved both neuronal and perceptual sensitivity in rhesus monkeys.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Sensory Perception
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Adult cortical sensory neuron properties are adaptable.
- Sensory input alterations can modify neuronal function.
- Neuronal plasticity's impact on perception is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the link between neuronal plasticity and perceptual performance.
- To explore how practicing a sensory task affects neuronal sensitivity.
Main Methods:
- Recorded activity of directionally selective neurons in the visual cortex of rhesus monkeys.
- Monkeys practiced a familiar motion direction discrimination task.
- Monitored changes in neuronal and perceptual sensitivity over trials.
Main Results:
- Perceptual sensitivity improved by an average of 19% during daily practice.
- Neuronal sensitivity showed a parallel short-term improvement.
- The time course and magnitude of neuronal and perceptual changes were similar.
Conclusions:
- Short-term improvements in psychophysical performance can stem from enhanced neuronal sensitivity.
- Neuronal plasticity within sensory pathways directly contributes to improved perceptual abilities.
- This study provides a direct link between neural adaptation and behavioral performance.