Year: 2008
Type: preprint
Abstract: As a key part of the brain's reward system, midbrain dopamine neurons are thought to generate signals that reflect errors in the prediction of reward. However, recent evidence suggests that "upstream" brain areas may make important contributions to the generation of prediction error signals. To address this issue, we recorded neural activity in midbrain reticular formation (MRNm) while rats performed a spatial working memory task. A large proportion of these neurons displayed positive and negative reward prediction error-related activity that was strikingly similar to that observed in dopamine neurons. Therefore, MRNm may be a source of reward prediction error signals.
Source: Learning & Memory
DOI: 10.1101/lm.1072808
Authors: Corey B. Puryear, Sheri J.Y. Mizumori
Institution: University of Washington
Language: English
Subfield: Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W2043466729