Topic: Q-learning model

The predominant theory of ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopamine neuron function is that they signal reward prediction error (RPE) in their phasic activity. Some recent studies have observed ramping dopamine neuron activity, but its relationship to RPE signalling is currently under debate. We set out to explain the function of this ramp and its relationship to phasic RPEs, using both experimental and theoretical methods. We chose to examine goal-directed navigation, as it requires learning to accurately estimate location and select optimal actions in each location. Given that VTA dopamine neuro