The frontal pursuit area (FPA) contains neurons that are directionally selective for pursuit eye movements. We found that FPA neurons discriminate target from distracter too late to account for pursuit directional selection. Rather, the timing of neuronal discrimination is linked to pursuit onset, suggesting a role in motor execution. We also found buildup of activity of FPA neurons prior to pursuit onset that correlated with eye acceleration. These results show that the FPA is unlikely to be involved in selection of initial pursuit direction, but could be involved in motor preparation by increasing pursuit gain prior to pursuit onset.

Mahaffy S, Krauzlis RJ. Inactivation and stimulation of the frontal pursuit area change pursuit metrics without affecting pursuit target selection.