This is necessary “to move beyond existing patterns of brain activity”

From the point of view of neurobiology, learning is associated with changes in the brain – new neuronal connections are created in it, which allow us to remember specific information. This process is best understood in the context of knowledge acquisition. During our lives, however, we learn not only specific facts, but also behaviors, including life in a community. The discoveries of Polish researchers published in the scientific journal “Science Advances” shed some light on the mechanisms determining this process.

Dr. Maciej Winiarski together with a group of researchers coordinated by Dr. Alicja Puścian and prof. Ewelina Knapska, corresponding author of the article, showed that in order to learn effectively from other individuals, it is not enough to rely on previously established patterns of brain activity. Neural plasticity – the ability of the brain to restructure itself in the face of changing circumstances – is necessary to efficiently navigate dynamic social networks. The prefrontal cortex, an area of ​​the brain involved in, among others, in the ability to solve problems, and plays a key role in social behavior.

The research was performed using the Polish Eco-HAB apparatus. This automated system for assessing the behavior of laboratory mice allowed researchers to observe that social cues – such as odors left by companions who had previously consumed high-calorie treats – influence how these animals adapt to their environment. When neural plasticity in the prefrontal cortex was impaired, the ability to use social cues decreased, indicating a key role of frontal regions in social groups adapting to change.

– We have shown that plasticity in the prefrontal cortex is necessary for the effective use of social information – explained Knapska. – This adaptability allows individuals to respond effectively to new cues from others and function in complex social networks.

– Our findings show that neural plasticity is necessary to go beyond existing patterns of brain activity and adapt behavior to the changing reality – Puścian added. – It is fundamentally important for navigating in a dynamically changing social structure.

The research not only sheds new light on the neural mechanisms of social learning, but also highlights the broader impact of neural plasticity in prefrontal regions on proper functioning in the social sphere. The presented findings also help to understand the source of brain abnormalities in disorders in which the ability to social adapt is reduced, such as autism, schizophrenia or Alzheimer's disease.