A theory of the Benham Top based on center–surround interactions in the parvocellular pathway

A model color-opponent neuron was used to investigate the subjective colors evoked by the Benham Top (BT). Color-opponent inputs from cone-selective parvocellular (P) pathway neurons with center–surround receptive fields were subtracted with a short relative delay, yielding a small transient input in response to a white spot. This transient input was amplified by BT-like stimuli, modeled as a thin dark bar followed by full-field illumination. The narrow bar produced maximal activation of the P-pathway surrounds but only partial activation of the P-pathway centers. Due to saturation, subsequent removal of the bar had little effect on the P-pathway surrounds, whereas the transient input from the P-pathway centers was amplified via disinhibition. Responses to BT-like stimuli became weaker as surround sensitivity recovered, producing an effect analogous to the progression of perceived BT colors. Our results suggest that the BT-illusion arises because cone-selective neurons convey information about both color and luminance contrast, allowing the two signals become confounded.