Title: Human brain oscillations for perception and attention: A mosaic of perceptually relevant rhythms is concealed in the “canonical” alpha band

Dr. Gregor Thut - Centre de Recherche Cerveau et Cognition, CNRS and Université de Toulouse, France

Abstract

Brain oscillations in the alpha-band have been linked to attention and perception. In particular, decreases in posterior alpha-amplitude have been thought to reflect activation of perceptually relevant brain areas for visual target engagement, while increases in alpha-amplitude have been associated with inhibition for distractor suppression. Traditionally, these alpha changes have been viewed as two facets of the same process. However, more recent evidence calls for revisiting this interpretation. This talk will cover recent research using EEG, combined TMS&EEG and combined MEG&EEG aiming for a mechanistic account of alpha-oscillations in sensory evidence accumulation. The data show that there is a multitude of alpha-oscillations within the canonical alpha-band that will need to be dissociated for a refined understanding of their roles in perception and attention.

Aix-Marseille Université
CERIMED - Faculté de Médecine, 27, Boulevard Jean Moulin
Marseille, 13005, France