".. a model of prefrontal cortex function emphasizing
the influence of goal-related activity on the choice
of the next motor output. ...
Different neocortical minicolumns represent distinct sensory
input states and distinct motor output actions. The dynamics
of each minicolumn include separate phases of encoding and
retrieval. During encoding, strengthening of excitatory connections
forms forward and reverse associations between each
state, the following action, and a subsequent state, which
may include reward. During retrieval, activity spreads from
reward states throughout the network. The interaction of this
spreading activity with a specific input state directs selection of
the next appropriate action. Simulations demonstrate how
these mechanisms can guide performance in a range of goal directed
tasks, and provide a functional framework for some
of the neuronal responses previously observed in the medial
prefrontal cortex during performance of spatial memory tasks
in rats."
Reference:
1 .
Hasselmo ME (2005) A model of prefrontal cortical mechanisms for goal-directed behavior. J Cogn Neurosci 17:1115-29 [PubMed]
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