Visual perceptual learning of feature conjunctions leverages non-linear mixed selectivity.

ABSTRACT: Visual objects are often defined by multiple features. Therefore, learning novel objects entails learning feature conjunctions. Visual cortex is organized into distinct anatomical compartments, each of which is devoted to processing a single feature. A prime example are neurons purely selective to color and orientation, respectively. However, neurons that jointly encode multiple features (mixed selectivity) also exist across the brain and play critical roles in a multitude of tasks. Here, we sought to uncover the optimal policy that our brain adapts to achieve conjunction learning using these available resources. 59 human subjects practiced orientation-color conjunction learning in four psychophysical experiments designed to nudge the visual system towards using one or the other resource.

SUBMITTER: Karami B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10907723 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature