The Main Function of Lateral Inhibition is To

Question

The main function of lateral inhibition is to
A) limit pain transmission
B) sharpen sensory discrimination
C) cause adaptation
D) shut off sensory input
E) enhance alertness by focusing attention

Accepted Answer

Lateral inhibition is a process in the nervous system where an excited neuron reduces the activity of its neighbors. This mechanism sharpens sensory discrimination by enhancing the contrast in the signal being received, making it easier to distinguish stimuli.