Modeling the Biophysical Basis of Multisensory Integration in the Superior Colliculus

Terrence Stanford, Wake Forest Univ. Sch. of Med.

Abstract
Neurons in the superior colliculus play a primary role in effecting orientation to stimuli in the environment. “Multisensory enhancement” refers to the phenomenon where the multisensory response is greater than the largest unisensory response. We present a new model that links the physiological response to specific predictions for the internal structure of the superior colliculus. This model can explain several counterintuitive findings regarding multisensory enhancement, including results showing that the elimination of descending cortical influences renders SC neurons incapable of integrating apparently intact unisensory influences. We present a simple analysis of the model and simulations that support the assumptions of this analysis. We also present preliminary data from anatomical studies that directly support the unique predictions of this model.

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