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The basal ganglia and cognitive pattern generators
1Dept. of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge 02139, USA.
Schizophrenia Bulletin
|January 1, 1997
Summary
This study proposes cognitive pattern generators organize action-oriented cognition, similar to motor systems. The basal ganglia may control these cognitive generators, with disorders linked to schizophrenia symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Psychiatry
Background:
- The motor system utilizes central pattern generators (CPGs) to organize rhythmic movements.
- Action-oriented cognition involves complex neural processes that are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce the concept of cognitive pattern generators (CPGs).
- To propose the involvement of the basal ganglia in controlling cognitive CPGs.
- To link basal ganglia dysfunction to schizophrenia symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual article drawing analogies between motor and cognitive systems.
- Hypothesizing the role of the basal ganglia in cognitive pattern generation.
Main Results:
- Cognitive pattern generators are proposed to organize neural activity for action-oriented cognition.
- The basal ganglia are implicated in the control of both motor and cognitive pattern generators.
Conclusions:
- Dysfunction in the basal ganglia's control of cognitive CPGs may underlie schizophrenia's positive and negative symptoms.
- This framework offers a novel perspective on the neural basis of cognitive disorders.