blobs (redirected from blob)

blobs 

Cluster of cells found in each hypercolumn of the primary visual cortex (V1), which are, in most instances, colour-opponent but insensitive to orientation, shape or movement. They are about 0.2 mm in diameter and separated by an area about 0.5 mm wide called 'interblob'. The reason why these cells are called blobs is because they are easily revealed when stained with the enzyme cytochrome oxidase, as these cells derive energy from the oxidase metabolism, whereas the interblobs stain very lightly. See cortical column; hypercolumn.