A Role for the Superior Colliculus in Decision Criteria

Abstract

Simple decisions arise from the evaluation of sensory evidence. But decisions are determined by more than just evidence. Individuals establish internal decision criteria that influence how they respond. Where or how decision criteria are established in the brain remains poorly understood. Here, we show that neuronal activity in the superior colliculus (SC) predicts changes in decision criteria. Using a novel “Yes-No” task that isolates changes in decision criterion from changes in decision sensitivity, and computing neuronal measures of sensitivity and criterion, we find that SC neuronal activity correlates with the decision criterion regardless of the location of the choice report. We also show that electrical manipulation of activity within the SC produces changes in decisions consistent with changes in decision criteria and are largely independent of the choice report location. Our correlational and causal results together provide strong evidence that SC activity signals the position of a decision criterion. Video Abstract [Figure presented] Crapse et al. describe neuronal activity in the superior colliculus correlating with decision criteria, rather than a decision variable. Manipulation of SC neuronal activity with microstimulation changed the criterion predictably, demonstrating a causal role for the SC in decision criteria.