You are cordially invited to an IBIO Research Seminar: Prof. Veit Stuphorn, Johns Hopkins University, Dept. of Neuroscience will be our guest on Monday, the 7th of April at 4 pm at the Institute of Biology (IBIO, Haus 91) in Room 001 with a lecture on the topic “Neural basis of self-control”.
Abstract: Self-control is the ability to inhibit self-defeating behavior in the face of temptation. The neural basis of self-control remains elusive, due to the difficulty of disentangling the processes of self-control and choice based on cost-benefit evaluations. We designed a novel task in monkeys that can distinguish different self-control levels from economic choice. We found that neurons in the Supplementary Eye Field, a higher -order oculomotor control region, encode self-control, some even before choice options were presented. This neuronal activity predicted whether and when monkeys give in to temptation. Our findings suggest that Supplementary Eye Field is part of a neuronal circuit underlying the capacity for self-control, which is crucial for selecting and maintaining the pursuit of costly goals that are beneficial in the long run.
Veit will be in Magdeburg the whole day, so please get in touch with Kristine Krug or Nicole Zenker if you would like to meet him.