Human Retinotopic Mapping: from Empirical to Computational Models of Retinotopy

Perceptual brain regions represent the world using 2D maps. In the visual cortex in particular, the 2D cortical surface represents the 2D visual field topologically. That is, adjacent neurons in the visual brain represent adjacent locations on the retina, resembling a miniature map of the outside world. Here, we review empirical and theoretical work to access and model these miniature maps in human visual cortex. We aim to present a balanced view of the foundational work of the past and the current state-of-the-art capabilities. Specifically, we discuss how empirical retinotopic mapping enabled the development of theoretical and computational models of retinotopy and, subsequently, how these models have been used to better understand the retinotopic organization of the human visual cortex. Finally, we discuss a non-exhaustive list of potential future directions to further our understanding of these visual maps, including their structure-functional relationships, individual variability, and more.