Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation Enhances Probabilistic Learning.

ABSTRACT: tVNS enhances various memory and learning mechanisms, but there is inconclusive evidence on whether probabilistic learning can be enhanced by tVNS. Here, we tested a simplified version of the probabilistic learning task with monetary rewards in a between-participants design with left and right-sided cymba conchae and tragus stimulation (compared to sham stimulation) in a sample of healthy individuals (n = 80, 64 women, on average 26.38 years old). tVNS enhances overall accuracy significantly (p = 4.09 x 10^-04) and reduces response times (p = 1.1006 x 10^-49) in the probabilistic learning phase. Reinforcement learning modelling of the data revealed that the tVNS group uses a riskier strategy, dedicates more time to stimulus encoding and motor processes and exhibits grea

SUBMITTER: Cakır R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11891121 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature