Learning to optimize perceptual decisions through suppressive interactions in the human brain.
Scientific Abstract
Translating noisy sensory signals to perceptual decisions is critical for successful interactions in complex environments. Learning is known to improve perceptual judgments by filtering external noise and task-irrelevant information. Yet, little is known about the brain mechanisms that mediate learning-dependent suppression. Here, we employ ultra-high field magnetic resonance spectroscopy of GABA to test whether suppressive processing in decision-related and visual areas facilitates perceptual judgments during training. We demonstrate that parietal GABA relates to suppression of task-irrelevant information, while learning-dependent changes in visual GABA relate to enhanced performance in target detection and feature discrimination tasks. Combining GABA measurements with functional brain connectivity demonstrates that training on a target detection task involves local connectivity and disinhibition of visual cortex, while training on a feature discrimination task involves inter-cortical interactions that relate to suppressive visual processing. Our findings provide evidence that learning optimizes perceptual decisions through suppressive interactions in decision-related networks.
Similar content
Preprint
Dual-site beta transcranial alternating current stimulation during a bimanual coordination task modulates functional connectivity between motor areas
Preprint
Closed-loop beta stimulation enhances beta activity and motor behaviour
Preprint
Modulation of motor cortical theta and gamma oscillations using phase-targeted, closed-loop optogenetic stimulation of local excitatory and inhibitory neurons
Preprint
Higher-Order Thalamus is Pivotal in Schizophrenia-Associated Pathophysiology
Learning to optimize perceptual decisions through suppressive interactions in the human brain.
Scientific Abstract
Translating noisy sensory signals to perceptual decisions is critical for successful interactions in complex environments. Learning is known to improve perceptual judgments by filtering external noise and task-irrelevant information. Yet, little is known about the brain mechanisms that mediate learning-dependent suppression. Here, we employ ultra-high field magnetic resonance spectroscopy of GABA to test whether suppressive processing in decision-related and visual areas facilitates perceptual judgments during training. We demonstrate that parietal GABA relates to suppression of task-irrelevant information, while learning-dependent changes in visual GABA relate to enhanced performance in target detection and feature discrimination tasks. Combining GABA measurements with functional brain connectivity demonstrates that training on a target detection task involves local connectivity and disinhibition of visual cortex, while training on a feature discrimination task involves inter-cortical interactions that relate to suppressive visual processing. Our findings provide evidence that learning optimizes perceptual decisions through suppressive interactions in decision-related networks.
Citation
2019. Nat Commun, 10(1):474.
DOI
10.1038/s41467-019-08313-y
Free Full Text at Europe PMC
PMC6349878Downloads
Similar content
Preprint
Dual-site beta transcranial alternating current stimulation during a bimanual coordination task modulates functional connectivity between motor areas
Preprint
Closed-loop beta stimulation enhances beta activity and motor behaviour
Preprint
Modulation of motor cortical theta and gamma oscillations using phase-targeted, closed-loop optogenetic stimulation of local excitatory and inhibitory neurons
Preprint