Dendritic computation for abstract rule-based flexible decision-making.

Dendritic computation in cortical neurons mediates flexible rule-based decision-making in mice, with apical dendrites encoding inferred rules and somata representing sensory stimuli.

• Why it matters: Understanding how the brain integrates sensory input with abstract rules is crucial for deciphering flexible cognition, yet the specific neural mechanisms remain unclear.
• What they did: Using a rule-based decision-making task combined with in vivo two-photon imaging and optogenetics in mice, researchers examined layer 5 extratelencephalic neurons in the auditory cortex, focusing on dendritic and somatic activity.
• The result: Optogenetic inhibition of dendrites impaired rule-dependent somatic choice coding, indicating dendritic computation supports the integration necessary for flexible behavior.