Neurons in human pre-supplementary motor area encode key computations for value-based choice

Aquino et al. show using human brain recordings that the pre-supplementary motor area encodes an integrated utility signal for each choice option and, subsequently, the decision itself. Adaptive behaviour in real-world environments requires that choices integrate several variables, including the novelty of the options under consideration, their expected value and uncertainty in value estimation. Here, to probe how integration over decision variables occurs during decision-making, we recorded neurons from the human pre-supplementary motor area (preSMA), ventromedial prefrontal cortex and dorsal anterior cingulate. Unlike the other areas, preSMA neurons not only represented separate pre-decision variables for each choice option but also encoded an integrated utility signal for each choice option and, subsequently, the decision itself. Post-decision encoding of variables for the chosen option was more widely distributed and especially prominent in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex. Our findings position the human preSMA as central to the implementation of value-based decisions.

Automated summary

Aquino et al. demonstrate that the pre-supplementary motor area encodes an integrated utility signal for choice options and decisions in human brain. Adaptive behavior in real-world environments requires integration of multiple variables, including novelty, expected value, and uncertainty. Neurons from preSMA, VMPFC, and dACC were recorded to investigate how integration occurs during decision-making. PreSMA neurons encode separate pre-decision variables for each option and an integrated utility signal, while post-decision encoding is more distributed and prominent in VMPFC. The findings highlight the importance of the human preSMA in value-based decisions.