Nucleus Accumbens Shell Neurons Encode the Kinematics of Reward Approach Locomotion.

ABSTRACT: The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is considered an interface between motivation and action, with NAc neurons playing an important role in promoting reward approach. However, the encoding by NAc neurons that contributes to this role remains unknown. We recorded 62 NAc neurons in male Wistar rats (n = 5) running towards rewarded locations in an 8-arm radial maze. Variables related to locomotor approach kinematics were the best predictors of the firing rate for most NAc neurons. Nearly 18% of the recorded neurons were inhibited during the entire approach run (locomotion-off cells), suggesting that reduction in firing of these neurons promotes initiation of locomotor approach. 27% of the neurons presented a peak of activity during acceleration followed by a valley during deceleration (acceleration-o

SUBMITTER: Levcik D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10527230 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature