Brown University Study Links Pupil Dilation to Brain 'Refresh' Mechanism During Surprise
A new study published in Nature Human Behaviour reveals that pupil dilation during surprise is not merely a reflex but a functional signal for a neural 'refresh' mode. Researchers at Brown University found that this physiological response, driven by the locus coeruleus and norepinephrine, helps the brain discard outdated expectations and adapt to new contexts, thereby improving learning and reducing perceptual bias.