11.2022 - 02.2026

Architecture and dynamics of the social brain in the monkey

This project aims to examine the specific contribution of ventrolateral prefrontal areas and their connected basal ganglia sectors to action selection and guidance based on social cues. Neural activity is recorded from these regions while monkeys have to observe social and geometric stimuli and to perform two types of actions according to these stimuli.

This part of the project concerns the anatomical and functional study in the macaque of the connectivity characteristics of the brain, cortical and subcortical regions, active during the processing of actions and emotions relating to oneself and others. Multi-area neural signals are also recorded by free-moving macaques with telemetry approaches, flanked by multi-chamber motion capture, to investigate neural dynamics and longitudinal changes during social interactions and neural mechanisms for action planning based on observation of actions. Advanced signal processing techniques and machine learning algorithms will enable a comprehensive model of the social brain. 

Improved understanding of cortico–basal ganglia interactions involved in action guidance and motor learning may contribute to the development of more effective interventions for movement disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease or dystonia, for instance by optimizing strategies for deep brain stimulation. Furthermore, clarifying how social and non-social information is differentially processed could yield insights into disorders characterized by impaired social cognition, including autism spectrum conditions, though substantial translational work would be required before clinical implementation. Finally, evidence of plasticity within frontal and basal ganglia circuits during complex motor learning could provide a neurobiological basis for enhancing rehabilitation strategies after stroke or trauma, for example by strengthening the rationale for action observation therapy.

Settori Scientifico Disciplinari

BIO/09  PHYSIOLOGY MED/26  NEUROLOGY

Spoke 1 : Neurodevelopment, Cognition and Social Interaction