Neural correlates of perceptual consciousness from within: a narrative review of human intracranial research
eLife January 13, 2026 François Stockart, Alexis Robin, Hal Blumenfeld et al.
Identifying neural correlates of perceptual consciousness (NCC) remains difficult because most studies use non-invasive brain measures that lack the spatial or temporal precision to separate consciousness from other cognitive processes. Low sensitivity also makes null findings hard to interpret. This review argues that human intracranial recordings—which offer high spatiotemporal resolution, better signal sensitivity, and broad brain coverage—can advance the search for NCCs. It examines studies at the single-neuron and population level, evaluates their implications for debates between cognitive and sensory theories of consciousness, and discusses current limitations and future directions using emerging technologies and experimental paradigms.