动物实验 z-bo 2020-08-25 481

　　In a study funded by the Medical Research Council and published in the journal eLife, a team of experts from the University of Oxford and Imperial College is believed to be involved in the decision-making and perception of the dorsal thalamus (MD). We observed this area called the brain. 

　　Oxford University senior author and researcher Dr. Anna Mitchell explained: We have learned that the dorsal thalamus is a field involving learning and decision-making, but we do not fully understand its role. An important issue in neuroscience is how the brain performs computational functions, such as planning daily activities and deciding what to do for another thing. Since we use a variety of networks to process information in the brain, it is very useful to focus on the role of specific areas of the overall task. In this case, I decided to observe how the back of the thalamus supports the best processing of new learning and decision-making.

　　This research uses macaques to teach cognitive tasks on touch screen computers, learn new information, and make the right choices to release food rewards. These tests are repeated after surgery for selective injury induced by the dorsal thalamus.

　　Monkeys that do not use the dorsal thalamus rarely respond to changes. These changes require us to adapt to their behavior and continue to make the right decisions to maximize returns. When they make decisions with several different reward options, they will also struggle with their own decisions.

　　Dr. Mitchell said: In the past, some people believed that in this situation, the monkeys would continue to repeat their previous choices. The monkeys could make different decisions, but based on the recent decisions they found that their ability to integrate information has declined. In their decision-making, they combined the latest choices to best guide the decision-making.

　　Studies have shown that the dorsal thalamus quickly integrates new information and plays a key role in learning some new knowledge and making decisions. This skill is essential for daily activities such as traveling by car and walking on busy streets.

　　Future research will show how the dorsal thalamus connects with other areas of the brain when acquiring new information, and how it depends on your learning, learning and adaptability will be observed.