Blind, yet seeing using 8216;blindsight8217;

8220;This is absolutely the first study of this ability in humans,8221; said Professor Beatrice de Gelder, from the University of Tilburg in the Netherlands.

The study, reported in the journal Current Biology, included extensive brain imaging and is the most dramatic demonstration to date of so-called 8216;blindsight. It suggests that areas of the brain outside of the visual cortex are also capable of visual processing.

8220;We see what humans can do, even with no awareness of seeing or any intentional avoidance of obstacles. It shows us the importance of these evolutionary ancient visual paths.

8220;They contribute more than we think they do for us to function in the real world,8221; said Gelder, who led the study.

Although this ability had previously been observed in blind monkeys with a damaged visual cortex, it has never before been seen in humans, the researchers claim.

8220;It8217;s a major lesson that brain damage can release minor neurological pathways that had previously been suppressed, allowing them to play a more significant role,8221; the researchers said.

The research could have implications for treating patients with brain damage. In time, and with practice, people with brain injuries may learn to lean more heavily on such subconscious or semiconscious systems, and perhaps even begin to construct some conscious vision from them, the report in the New Scientist online said.