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CBGTPy: An extensible cortico-basal ganglia-thalamic framework for modeling biological decision making
Matthew Clapp1, Jyotika Bahuguna1, Cristina Giossi2,3
1Department of Psychology & Neuroscience Institute, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America.
Plos One
|January 14, 2025
Summary
We developed CBGTPy, a flexible virtual environment modeling the cortico-basal-ganglia-thalamic (CBGT) pathways. This tool aids in designing goal-directed agents and generating testable predictions for animal behavior and neural activity.
Area of Science:
- Computational neuroscience
- Cognitive modeling
- Neuroscience
Background:
- The mammalian brain's cortico-basal-ganglia-thalamic (CBGT) pathways are crucial for decision-making and goal-directed behavior.
- Understanding the internal dynamics of these pathways is essential for modeling cognitive functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce CBGTPy, a novel virtual environment for designing and testing goal-directed agents.
- To enable researchers to investigate the internal dynamics of the CBGT system and generate testable predictions.
Main Methods:
- CBGTPy was designed with flexibility, allowing easy modification of experimental parameters in decision-making paradigms.
- The framework was demonstrated across various single and multi-choice tasks.
Main Results:
- CBGTPy facilitates the creation of biologically realistic agent behavior.
- The environment allows for the investigation of CBGT system dynamics during task performance.
Conclusions:
- CBGTPy is a versatile and extensible tool for computational neuroscience research.
- The framework supports the implementation of model extensions and application to diverse experimental protocols.
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