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Neural mechanisms balancing accuracy and flexibility in working memory and decision tasks
1Center for Theoretical Interdisciplinary Sciences, Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325001, China.
NPJ Systems Biology and Applications
|May 7, 2025
Summary
This study uses physics principles to model decision-making and working memory in animals. Findings show a balance between accuracy and robustness, proposing a temporal gating mechanism for enhanced cognitive flexibility.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biophysics
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Living systems exhibit unique adaptability, distinct from conventional physics-based systems.
- Cognitive functions like decision-making (DM) and working memory (WM) are vital for adaptation, but their mechanisms remain poorly understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biophysical mechanisms underlying decision-making (DM) and working memory (WM) functions.
- To develop a quantitative framework grounded in non-equilibrium physics for understanding cognitive processes.
Main Methods:
- Application of a general non-equilibrium landscape and flux approach.
- Utilized a biophysically based model capable of performing DM and WM tasks.
Main Results:
- Enhanced DM accuracy was observed with stronger resting states and selective inhibition.
- Working memory robustness against distractors decreased under these conditions.
- A temporal gating mechanism using non-selective input during delay periods was proposed to gate distractors efficiently.
Conclusions:
- A dynamical modulation combining selective inhibition and temporal gating allows for adaptable WM, balancing robustness and flexibility based on cognitive demands.
- The proposed framework offers a physics-based approach to uncover mechanisms of cognitive functions.
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