We use our eyes to see, but, obviously, there are so many more things involved in our vision, because it's a complex process.
For instance, our brain plays a huge role in our vision, so scientists have discovered new information about how it works.
Let's see why our brain is a significant part of how our vision works.
How it was discovered
A team from York University conducted a study to understand how the brain reacts and learns when shown unexpected images compared to predicted ones.
The researchers wanted to test a theory that suggests the brain learns a model of the world and updates its predictions when sensory information contradicts them.
Using a mouse model, they displayed visual patterns over multiple days and then presented images that violated those patterns.
They measured brain activity in the visual cortex and found that the brain's response to pattern-violating images evolved differently over time compared to pattern-matching images.
Why it's important to know
The study provides insight into sensory learning and suggests a previously unknown role in the brain for processing unexpected stimuli.
This understanding can contribute to the development of better machine learning algorithms and potential advancements in restoring vision.
