Neural correlates of perceptual consciousness from within: a narrative review of human intracranial research

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.

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Abstract

Despite many years of research, the quest to identify neural correlates of perceptual consciousness (NCC) remains unresolved. One major obstacle lies in methodological limitations: most studies rely on non-invasive neural measures with limited spatial or temporal resolution making it difficult to disentangle proper NCCs from concurrent cognitive processes. Additionally, the relatively low sensitivity of non-invasive neural measures limits the interpretation of null findings in studies targeting proper NCCs. In this review, we discuss how human intracranial recordings can advance the search for NCCs, by offering high spatiotemporal resolution, improved signal sensitivity, and broad cortical and subcortical coverage. We review studies that have examined NCCs at the level of single neurons and populations of neurons, and evaluate their implications on the debates between cognitive and sensory theories of consciousness. Finally, we highlight the limits of current intracranial human recordings and propose future directions based on emerging technologies and novel experimental paradigms.