Searching for the Switch: Neural Bases for Perceptual Rivalry Alternations

Author: Pettigrew J.D.

Source: Brain and Mind, Volume 2, Number 1, April 2001 , pp. 85-118(34)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

A midbrain neural basis for the perceptual oscillations of binocular rivalry is suggested on the basis of fMRI studies of rivalry and inferences from the properties of rivalry that cannot be explained from the known properties of primary visual cortical (V1) neurons. The rivalry switch is proposed to activate homologous areas of each cerebral hemisphere alternately, by means of a bistable oscillator circuit that straddles the midline of the ventral tegmentum. This bistable oscillator operates at the same slow rate that is characteristic of perceptual rivalry alternations. Whilst attempting to divert the present preoccupation with cortical mechanisms for rivalry, the new proposal integrates many cortical areas, in keeping with recent evidence that binocular rivalry involves widespread areas of the hemispheres. By linking rivalry to interhemispheric switching mechanisms in this way, the new proposal for the switch makes the prediction that binocular rivalry will be subject to high level influences such as mood and motivation. These predictions are being fulfilled, with rivalry playing an increasing role in the diagnosis and understanding if mood disorders, schizophrenia and other psychiatric conditions.

Keywords: binocular rivalry; interhemispheric switch; midbrain oscillator; neural basis

Language: English

Document Type: Regular paper

Affiliations: 1: Vision, Touch and Hearing Research Centre University of Queensland 4072 (E-mail: j.pettigrew@vthrc.uq.edu.au;Web site: www.uq.edu.au/nuq/jack/jack.html)

Publication date: 2001-04-01