This code reproduces the computational model of cortical circuits presented in Beerendonk, Mejias et al., PNAS 2024. The model describes a simplified population-level cortical circuit with pyramidal neurons and multiple interneuron types (PV, SST, VIP) which performs a simple perceptual decision making task. Notably, the model incorporates the effect of arousal signals on the circuit to reproduce the inverted-U relationship between task performance and arousal level found experimentally (and the corresponding U-shape between reaction times and arousal levels).
Experimental motivation: This model attempts to provide a mechanistic explanation of the Yerkes-Dodson law, a psychological principle which predicts a non-monotonic relationship between the arousal level of a subject and its performance in a given task --with intermediate levels of arousal leading to optimal task performance.
Model Type: Neural mass
Region(s) or Organism(s): Neocortex
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Simulation Environment: MATLAB
Implementer(s): Mejias, Jorge [j.f.mejias at uva.nl]
References:
Beerendonk L et al. (2024). A disinhibitory circuit mechanism explains a general principle of peak performance during mid-level arousal. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. 121 [PubMed]