Dopamine reward prediction-error signalling: a two-component response.

ABSTRACT: Environmental stimuli and objects, including rewards, are often processed sequentially in the brain. Recent work suggests that the phasic dopamine reward prediction-error response follows a similar sequential pattern. An initial brief, unselective and highly sensitive increase in activity unspecifically detects a wide range of environmental stimuli, then quickly evolves into the main response component, which reflects subjective reward value and utility. This temporal evolution allows the dopamine reward prediction-error signal to optimally combine speed and accuracy.

SUBMITTER: Schultz W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5549862 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature