Researchers in the Bruchas Lab have identified a fast-acting brain-signaling system that helps animals learn from their actions and stay engaged in behaviors that get them what they want. Such goal-directed behavior is essential for everyday learning and decision-making.
The findings, published Aug. 31 in the journal Cell, focus on the opioid peptide dynorphin, a neurotransmitter molecule produced naturally in the body. Dynorphin, the researchers found, is released within seconds during goal-directed behavior and acts on a specific brain circuit to help regulate what happens next.