Extend predictive-coding findings to visual processing

Determine whether predictive-coding-based task-dependent sensory-thalamus modulation extends from auditory processing to visual processing, including visual speech recognition.

Background

The paper interprets corticothalamic feedback as a possible carrier of predictive signals that fine-tune sensory processing according to task demands. Although related predictive-coding principles have been demonstrated in subcortical auditory processing, the authors explicitly leave unresolved whether the same account applies to visual processing and visual speech.

References

It remains an open question whether these findings also extend to visual processing, including visual speech.

— Transcranial magnetic stimulation of visual-motion area V5/MT modulates sensory thalamus responses during visual speech recognition  (2608.19034 - Jeschke et al., 19 Aug 2026) in Discussion, p. 9

The interpretation of negative signal changes remains unclear: while they may simply reflect a deviation from baseline or neural suppression [73–78], baseline LGN responses can also be elevated, for instance in anticipation of visual stimulation [69], resulting in a relative suppression during the task.

— Transcranial magnetic stimulation of visual-motion area V5/MT modulates sensory thalamus responses during visual speech recognition  (2608.19034 - Jeschke et al., 19 Aug 2026) in Discussion, p. 10