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Cognitive cost as dynamic allocation of energetic resources
S Thomas Christie1, Paul Schrater2
1Cognitive Science, University of Minnesota Minneapolis, MN, USA.
Frontiers in Neuroscience
|September 18, 2015
Summary
The brain conserves energy by planning longer-term metabolic resource allocation, explaining cognitive effort avoidance. This model uses astrocytic glycogen as an energy buffer, integrating cost/benefit and limited resource theories.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Metabolic Regulation
Background:
- Cognitive effort and mental fatigue are recognized but poorly understood.
- Existing theories of cognitive cost lack plausible biological mechanisms.
- Previous models failed to adequately explain metabolic bases for cognitive effort.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel model of cognitive cost based on metabolic resource allocation.
- To explain cognitive effort avoidance through energy budget management.
- To identify astrocytic glycogen as a key energetic reserve.
Main Methods:
- Developed a control-theoretic model of decision-making with an energy budget.
- Incorporated astrocytic glycogen dynamics as an energy buffer.
- Analyzed model predictions against phenomena of cognitive cost and hypoglycemia.
Main Results:
- The model explains cognitive effort avoidance as optimal allocation of limited energetic resources.
- It accounts for reward sensitivity and hypoglycemia's effects on cognition.
- Astrocytic glycogen dynamics align with observed cognitive cost phenomena.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive cost arises from the brain's rational control of metabolic resources.
- This model integrates cost/benefit and limited resource perspectives.
- Metabolic resource control may underpin attention, working memory, and learning strategies.
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