We present a comprehensive analysis of slow-roll inflation incorporating Gauss-Bonnet corrections within modified gravity frameworks. The model features a non-minimal coupling between the inflaton field and the Gauss-Bonnet invariant, with the coupling function Formula: see text(Formula: see text) inversely proportional to the scalar potential Formula: see text(Formula: see text). We derive the complete set of background equations, slowroll parameters, and cosmological perturbations within this framework. The scalar spectral index Formula: see text and tensor-to-scalar ratio Formula: see text are computed for a class of exponential-potential models, showing excellent agreement with Planck 2018 and ACT 2024 observational constraints. Furthermore, we extend the analysis to include reheating dynamics, primordial non-Gaussianity, and comparison with latest CMB data.
Younesizadeh et al. (Fri,) studied this question.