534. Optogenetic Deep Brain Stimulation of mPFC Axons in Mid-Striatum Improves Cognitive Flexibility

Neuromodulation of cortico-striatal circuits can ameliorate deficits in flexible decision-making. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the ventral internal capsule/ventral striatum (VCVS) in humans and DBS-like stimulation of mid-striatum in rats, both improve flexibility. Clinical DBS is thought to work by stimulating axons within the VCVS, but the exact mechanisms remain unclear. By using optogenetic DBS and selective activation of axons vs. cell bodies we can determine which neural elements are required for DBS’s behavioral effects.