Do simple cells or complex cells in the visual cortex display a center-surround orientation?

Simple cells in the visual cortex are indeed known for their center-surround orientation properties. These cells are primarily responsible for detecting edges and lines of specific orientations. Their receptive fields have a distinct organization where certain areas (the center) respond excitably to light while surround areas can exhibit inhibitory effects, leading to a spatially organized response to visual stimuli. This center-surround arrangement allows simple cells to be sensitive to the contrast and orientation of visual stimuli, which is crucial for processing shapes and edges in the visual environment.

In contrast, complex cells also respond to edges and orientations but do not have a clear center-surround organization in their receptive fields. Instead, they are more broadly tuned for a specific orientation regardless of where the stimulus is located within the receptive field. This differentiation is important for understanding the distinct roles that simple and complex cells play in visual processing.