Primate-informed neural network for visual decision-making

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Authors: Jie Su, Fang Cai, Shu-Kuo Zhao, Xin-Yi Wang, Tianyi Qian, Da-Hui Wang, Bo Hong
Cited by: 0
References: 69

Abstract

The human brain excels at complex tasks with remarkable efficiency, adaptability, and resilience, making it a powerful source of inspiration for AI. Here, we present a neural dynamics model inspired by the primate dorsal visual pathway, a circuit crucial for motion and spatial processing. Incorporating key neuronal and synaptic dynamics, the model reproduces human-like decision-making behaviors and neural activity patterns without the need for extensive training. Compared with conventional artificial networks, it exhibits superior robustness to perturbations such as noise and damage. To further enhance its performance, we introduce a neuroimaging-guided fine-tuning strategy. Correlations between MRI features and behavioral performance are mapped onto critical model parameters, guiding the optimization toward more biologically plausible operational regimes. This approach improves performance and adaptability while preserving biological plausibility and reducing the parameter search space. This is a demonstration of directly integrating human neuroimaging evidence into AI model optimization, establishing a methodology for brain-inspired modeling. By combining insights from primate electrophysiology, human neuroimaging, and biologically grounded modeling, our work narrows the gap between neuroscience and AI. It demonstrates how brain-inspired approaches can advance the development of adaptive, resilient, and interpretable AI systems, offering a paradigm for biologically grounded intelligence.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Neural dynamics and brain function Neural Networks and Applications Visual perception and processing mechanisms

Publication details

Journal / source
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Volume
123
Issue
2
Pages
e2426883123–e2426883123
Publication date
9 January 2026
Language
EN