Flexible control of mutual inhibition: a neural model of two-interval discrimination

Science. 2005 Feb 18;307(5712):1121-4. doi: 10.1126/science.1104171.

Abstract

Networks adapt to environmental demands by switching between distinct dynamical behaviors. The activity of frontal-lobe neurons during two-interval discrimination tasks is an example of these adaptable dynamics. Subjects first perceive a stimulus, then hold it in working memory, and finally make a decision by comparing it with a second stimulus. We present a simple mutual-inhibition network model that captures all three task phases within a single framework. The model integrates both working memory and decision making because its dynamical properties are easily controlled without changing its connectivity. Mutual inhibition between nonlinear units is a useful design motif for networks that must display multiple behaviors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Animals
  • Cognition*
  • Computer Simulation
  • Decision Making*
  • Discrimination, Psychological*
  • Frontal Lobe / cytology
  • Frontal Lobe / physiology*
  • Macaca
  • Mathematics
  • Memory*
  • Models, Neurological*
  • Nerve Net / physiology
  • Neural Inhibition
  • Neural Networks, Computer
  • Neurons / physiology*
  • Neurons, Afferent / physiology
  • Nonlinear Dynamics
  • Prefrontal Cortex / cytology
  • Prefrontal Cortex / physiology
  • Psychomotor Performance
  • Somatosensory Cortex / cytology
  • Somatosensory Cortex / physiology