Motion-induced perceptual extrapolation of blurred visual targets

J Neurosci. 2001 Oct 15;21(20):RC172. doi: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.21-20-j0003.2001.

Abstract

In the motion-extrapolation hypothesis, the visual system can extrapolate the instantaneous position of a moving object from its past trajectory. The existence of such a mechanism in human vision has been intensely debated. Here, we show compelling perceptual extrapolation of both first- and second-order moving stimuli, the magnitude of which depends on blurring of the visual target. The spatiotemporal characteristics of the extrapolation can be quantitatively accounted for by a simple model based on temporally biphasic neuronal response, a property widely observed among sensory neurons. Thus, motion-induced perceptual extrapolation exists in human vision, and spatial blurring is an important factor in the interaction between motion and perceptual localization.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Computer Simulation
  • Contrast Sensitivity / physiology*
  • Data Display
  • Fixation, Ocular / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Models, Neurological*
  • Motion Perception / physiology*
  • Neurons / physiology
  • Normal Distribution
  • Photic Stimulation / instrumentation
  • Photic Stimulation / methods*
  • Psychophysics
  • Reproducibility of Results