What is the purpose of laterally directed inhibitory neurons in a somatotopic map, such as for the sensation of a needle prick on the finger?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Laterally directed inhibitory neurons help in refining and improving stimulus localization by inhibiting the activity of neighboring neurons, thus sharpening the perception of the stimulus to a more exact location. This mechanism enhances the ability to precisely identify where a stimulus, like a needle prick, is occurring on the body.

What Is the Purpose of Laterally Directed Inhibitory Neurons in a Somatotopic