Question

If there is a reward predicted and a reward occurs: Phasic burst occurs after the ___? DA neurons do respond to reward?

1) reward prediction
2) reward occurrence
3) reward anticipation
4) reward outcome

Answer 1

A phasic burst in DA neurons occurs after the reward occurrence, confirming a prior reward prediction and demonstrating the importance of reward timing in the dopaminergic system's role in associative learning and memory encoding.

Step-by-step explanation:

When it comes to dopaminergic neurons (DA neurons) and their response to rewards, the sequence of events is critical for understanding how rewards influence behavior and learning. In the context where a reward is predicted and then occurs, we typically see a phasic burst of activity in DA neurons. This phasic burst occurs after a reward prediction is confirmed by the reward occurrence.

This surge in activity reflects the role of the dopaminergic system in associative learning and the importance of reward prediction value. When the expectation of a reward is met, the DA neurons respond robustly. This relationship between the reward system and memory is key, particularly in the mesolimbic pathway and its effects on memory encoding at the CA1 hippocampal region.

For example, when reinforcement is delivered after a predictable number of responses (e.g., after 2, 4, 6, and 8 responses), the DA neurons will exhibit firing patterns associated with the understanding of this regular pattern and expectation. Conversely, if reinforcement is delivered after an unpredictable number of responses, the response pattern of DA neurons will be different, reflecting a different learning and prediction process.