Cooperating marmosets extend decision-making model of brain
A study on marmosets reveals that the 'evidence accumulation' model of brain activity, previously linked to perceptual decisions, also governs social decision-making. The research shows that neurons in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex fire in sync when animals coordinate actions.
Why it matters
Provides neuroscientific evidence that social cooperation relies on the same fundamental brain computations as individual decision-making.
Kanga the marmoset places her hand on the lever and looks at Dodson, a fellow marmoset working with her on a task. As it becomes apparent that Dodson is ready to pull his own lever, neurons in Kanga’s dorsomedial prefrontal cortex ramp up their firing. The activity reaches its peak as Kanga decides to pull the lever, in sync with her partner. As a reward for their coordinated effort, both marmosets earn a sip of liquid marshmallow fluff.
The article is a scientific report summarizing peer-reviewed research findings.
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