Newly Discovered Brain Cells Play a Key Role in Handling Uncertainty

Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, have identified a new type of brain cell located in the frontal region of the brain that is particularly active during uncertain decision-making. These neurons seem to support learning and cognitive flexibility, especially in situations where outcomes are unpredictable. This discovery was made through experiments involving rats performing tasks with varying levels of uncertainty, where specific neurons in the orbitofrontal cortex lit up during decision-making processes involving risk and reward. The study involved advanced brain imaging techniques, including calcium-ion markers and optogenetics, to observe and manipulate neuron activity.

The findings suggest that these brain cells are crucial for adaptive behavior, allowing animals to learn from changing environments and adjust their choices accordingly. When the activity of these neurons was suppressed, rats showed decreased performance and less ability to track the value of different options, indicating the importance of these cells in flexible reward learning.

This research has potential implications for understanding human conditions marked by impaired adaptability, such as anxiety disorders, PTSD, and dementias. Since the orbitofrontal cortex is involved in processing emotions, tastes, smells, and rewards, insights into its neural coding may lead to targeted therapies that enhance decision-making under uncertainty.

The study highlights the complex interplay between different brain regions, particularly contrasting the orbitofrontal cortex with the secondary motor cortex, which is more active during certain decision-making. Understanding these neural mechanisms in animals could pave the way for novel treatments that help individuals better manage uncertainty and improve mental resilience.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-newly-brain-cells-wired-uncertainty.html