Sustained bias of spatial attention in a 3T MRI scanner

Abstract

The static magnetic field of MRI scanners induces magneto-hydrodynamic stimulation of the vestibular organ (MVS) in the inner ear. This not only causes a horizontal vestibular nystagmus but also induces a horizontal bias in spatial attention. In this study, we aimed to determine the time course of MVS-induced biases in both VOR and spatial attention inside a 3T MRI-scanner as well as their respective aftereffects after participants left the scanner. Eye movements and overt spatial attention in a visual search task were assessed in healthy volunteers before, during and after a one-hour MVS period. All participants exhibited a VOR inside the scanner, which declined over time but never vanished completely. Importantly, there was also an MVS-induced horizontal bias in spatial attention and exploration, which persisted throughout the entire hour within the scanner. Upon exiting the scanner, we observed aftereffects in the opposite direction manifested in both the VOR and in spatial attention, lasting for about 6 minutes. Sustained MVS effects on spatial attention have important implications for the design and interpretation of fMRI-studies and for the development of therapeutic interventions counteracting spatial neglect.