A Role for the Subthalamic Nucleus in Response Inhibition during Conflict

• DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2259-12.2012
• Publication Date: 2012-09-27T07:04:43Z
• Authors: John-Stuart Brittain; Kate E. Watkins; Raed A. Joundi; Nicola J. Ray; Peter Holland; Alexander L. Green; Tipu Z. Aziz; Ned Jenkinson
• Keywords: Subthalamic Nucleus; Response inhibition

The subthalamic nucleus (STN) is a key node in the network that supports response inhibition. It suggested STN rapidly inhibits basal ganglia activity, to pause motor output during conflict until an appropriate plan ready. Here, we recorded neural activity Stroop task from deep brain stimulation electrodes implanted human STN. We intended determine whether cognitive psychological phenomena such as effect can be explained via mechanisms of inhibition involving STN, or higher centers are alone responsible. show stimulus-driven desychronization beta band (15–35 Hz) lasts throughout verbal response, keeping with idea beta-band synchrony decreases allow occur. During incongruent trials—in which times were elongated due effect—a resynchronization was seen before response. Crucially, trials participant unable withhold prepotent this occurred after onset. suggest pauses system resolved.