Cortical Processing for the Vestibular and Visual Input of Egomotion in Macaque Monkeys: Separate Networks with Targeted Convergence
The integration of visual and vestibular inputs during egomotion is fundamental for both postural and navigational control. In the present study, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in four macaque monkeys to investigate cortical activation in response to galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS), applied through transmastoid electrodes, and egomotion-compatible (EC) optic flow patterns. Visual and vestibular stimulations activate two largely independent cortical networks: the vestibular network encompasses the insular cortex, superior parietal lobule, frontal lobe, and cingulate cortex, while optic flow primarily activates regions in the superior temporal sulcus, temporo-parietal junction, inferior parietal lobule, and restricted portions of the cingulate and frontal cortices. Despite this segregation, several areas exhibit visuo-vestibular convergence: VPS in the temporo-parietal junction, area 7 in the inferior parietal lobule, VIP and LIP in the intraparietal sulcus, MSTd in the superior temporal sulcus, CSv in the cingulate sulcus, and FEFsem in the frontal cortex. These findings demonstrate that visual and vestibular signals generated by egomotion are processed in extended and distinct cortical networks with several narrow convergence sites, consistent with the idea that multisensory integration during self-motion is achieved through selective convergence rather than general network overlap.