Visual brain and visual perception: how does the cortex do perceptual grouping?
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Updated: Aug 14, 2026

Cross-Modal Multivariate Pattern Analysis
Published on: November 9, 2011
S Grossberg1, E Mingolla, W D Ross
1Dept of Cognitive and Neural Systems, Boston University, MA 02215, USA.
Abstract:
How the brain generates visual percepts is a central problem in neuroscience. We propose a detailed neural model of how lateral geniculate nuclei and the interblob cortical stream through V1 and V2 generate context-sensitive perceptual groupings from visual inputs. The model suggests a functional role for cortical layers, columns, maps and networks, and proposes homologous circuits for V1 and V2 with larger-scale processing in V2. An integrated treatment of interlaminar, horizontal, orientational and endstopping cortical interactions and a role for corticogeniculate feedback in grouping are proposed. Modeled circuits simulate parametric psychophysical data about boundary grouping and illusory contour formation.
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