Dissociable neural correlates of uncertainty underlie different exploration strategies

This fMRI study (n=31) investigated the neural basis of different exploration strategies in decision-making. Results show that relative uncertainty is represented in right rostrolateral prefrontal cortex (RLPFC) and drives directed exploration, while total uncertainty is represented in right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and drives random exploration. Decision value, combining these uncertainties, is reflected in motor cortex activity. Findings support a hybrid computational architecture where separate uncertainty computations are combined to inform choice.

Momchil S. Tomov, Van Q. Truong, Rohan A. Hundia, Samuel J. Gershman