A genetically defined insula-brainstem circuit selectively controls motivational vigor.
Journal Article (Journal Article)
The anterior insular cortex (aIC) plays a critical role in cognitive and motivational control of behavior, but the underlying neural mechanism remains elusive. Here, we show that aIC neurons expressing Fezf2 (aICFezf2), which are the pyramidal tract neurons, signal motivational vigor and invigorate need-seeking behavior through projections to the brainstem nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS). aICFezf2 neurons and their postsynaptic NTS neurons acquire anticipatory activity through learning, which encodes the perceived value and the vigor of actions to pursue homeostatic needs. Correspondingly, aIC → NTS circuit activity controls vigor, effort, and striatal dopamine release but only if the action is learned and the outcome is needed. Notably, aICFezf2 neurons do not represent taste or valence. Moreover, aIC → NTS activity neither drives reinforcement nor influences total consumption. These results pinpoint specific functions of aIC → NTS circuit for selectively controlling motivational vigor and suggest that motivation is subserved, in part, by aIC's top-down regulation of dopamine signaling.
Full Text
Duke Authors
Cited Authors
- Deng, H; Xiao, X; Yang, T; Ritola, K; Hantman, A; Li, Y; Huang, ZJ; Li, B
Published Date
- December 22, 2021
Published In
Volume / Issue
- 184 / 26
Start / End Page
- 6344 - 6360.e18
PubMed ID
- 34890577
Pubmed Central ID
- PMC9103523
Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)
- 1097-4172
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
- 10.1016/j.cell.2021.11.019
Language
- eng
Conference Location
- United States