Khaberni - Scientists from Kyoto University in Japan found that the cause of decreased motivation lies in a neural network situated between the ventral striatum and the pallidum, two regions in the brain associated with reward and risk.
This neural network acts as "brakes on motivation". The researchers noticed that when this circuit was inhibited in macaque monkeys, the animals were more willing to perform difficult or unpleasant tasks, while still assessing rewards and penalties, indicating that the change was in the inclination to act itself and not in the ability to assess outcomes.
Neuroscientist Ken-Ichi Amemori explained that this system functions as a protection against emotional burnout, preventing excessive activity. Pearl Chiu, a specialist in computational psychiatry, emphasized the importance of distinguishing between motivation suppression and fear of risks, pointing out that the discovery of this circuit could open new ways to treat depression and disorders related to lack of motivation.
The scientists noted that this mechanism can be influenced through deep brain stimulation or ultrasonic wave techniques, raising hopes for developing personalized effective methods to restore initiative in patients. However, the researchers caution that removing the "brakes" should be conducted carefully, with consideration of the potential risks of excessive activity.
Promising Prospects for Medicine
These findings have the potential to change the therapeutic approach in cases of depression and other conditions related to lack of motivation. Current methods often aim to restore life's enjoyment or reduce anxiety, but patients struggle to perform the simplest actions. Identifying the neural network that selectively inhibits initiative in uncomfortable situations paves the way for new therapeutic strategies that may help patients regain their activity and motivation.
