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Reward modulation of cognitive function: the nucleus accumbens
performance in the low reward condition, in combination with marginally impaired task-
switching performance in the high reward context in animals without an intact AcbC.
Importantly, lesions of the AcbC did not impair flexible control per se (i.e. lesions did not affect
accuracy on the task-switching paradigm). This finding fits remarkably well with previous
studies, although none assessed directly whether manipulating the amount of reward earned
when executing an appropriate action alters cognitive control. Classical learning paradigms
Figure 6.4 |
Performance (accuracy) in terms of switch cost (repeat – switch)
We observed no effect of sham surgery on overall or rewarded task-switching performance, while an
effect of surgery on rewarded task-switching performance was observed in the group with lesions of
the accumbens core, without affecting overall accuracy. Error bars represent standard errors of the
difference.
-6
-4
-2
0
2
4
Sham
Lesion
post
Switch cost (repeat - switch)
in terms of accuracy (correct > incorrect)
pre
High
Low
Reward
improved performance
(lower switch cost)
post
pre
Group
Surgery
6
Surgery