Distinct Neural Circuits Underlie Prospective and Concurrent Memory-Guided Behavior

Abstract

The past is the best predictor of the future. This simple postulate belies the complex neurobiological mechanisms which facilitate an individual’s use of memory to guide decisions. Previous research has shown that integration of memories bias decision-making. Alternatively, memories can prospectively guide our choices. Here, we elucidated the mechanisms and timing of the hippocampal(HPC), medial prefrontal (mPFC), and striatal contributions during prospective memory-guided decision-making. We developed an associative learning task in which the choice was conditional on the preceding stimulus. Two distinct networks emerged: (1) a prospective circuit consisting of the HPC, putamen, mPFC, and other cortical regions, which exhibited increased activation preceding successful conditional decisions; and (2) a concurrent circuit comprised of the caudate, dlPFC, and additional cortical structures that engaged during execution of correct conditional choices. Our findings demonstrate distinct neurobiological circuits through which memory prospectively biases decisions and influence choice execution.