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Neurons as will and representation.

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Human memories and voluntary actions originate from distinct neuronal generators. Medial temporal lobe reactivation drives memory recall, while frontoparietal networks initiate voluntary actions, offering insights into brain function.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Neurosurgery

Background:

  • Subjective experiences of memory and action are often perceived as spontaneous.
  • Neuronal basis of these experiences is rarely accessible in humans.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review insights into neuronal generators of human memory and voluntary action.
  • To characterize their properties, interactions, and potential for modulation.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of single-neuron recordings and stimulation in neurosurgical patients.
  • Review of evidence linking specific brain regions to memory and action generation.

Main Results:

  • Memory recollection linked to medial temporal lobe reactivation.
  • Voluntary action linked to frontoparietal preactivation.
  • Distinct neuronal codes observed before conscious awareness reports.

Conclusions:

  • Two internal neuronal generators underlie memory and action.
  • Their interaction enables flexible, memory-based choices and action-based memory representations.
  • Potential for therapeutic modulation of memories and volitions raises ethical considerations.