Quantitative determination of orientational and directional components in the response of visual cortical cells to moving stimuli

摘要: The response characteristic of visual cortical cells to moving oriented stimuli consists mainly directional (D) and orientational (O) components superimposed a spontaneous activity (S). Commonly used polar plot diagrams reflect the maximal responses for different orientations directions stimulus movement with periodicity 360 degrees in field. Fast Fourier analysis (FFT) is applied data order determine intermingled S, D, O components. zero gain component spectrum corresponds (virtual) activity. first interpreted as strength direction selectivity second orientation specificity. axes preferred optimal are represented by respective phase values. Experimental well described these parameters relative changes shape can be detected an accuracy better than 1%. results compatible model converging excitatory inhibitory inputs weighted according analysis. easily performed quantitative determination allows study pharmacologically induced dynamic characteristics single cells.