Electrophysiological study uncovers distinct orbitofrontal dynamics during conflict in humans, revealing rapid state switching during approach–avoidance decisions.
Key Points
To determine real-time neural computations and functional architecture within the human orbitofrontal cortex during approach–avoidance conflict.
Obtained intracranial recordings from human subjects implanted with stereotactic electroencephalography (sEEG) electrodes in the orbitofrontal cortex.
Evaluated real-time electrophysiological dynamics while participants completed a gamified approach–avoidance conflict task involving potential rewards and punishments.
Approaching a reward was preceded by an increase in medial orbitofrontal cortex activity and a concurrent decrease in lateral orbitofrontal cortex activity.
Neural activity within the orbitofrontal cortex rapidly alternated between discrete pro-approach and pro-avoidant states immediately before a decision was made.