Neural correlates of error detection and error correction: is there a common neuroanatomical substrate?
Successful behaviour requires error detection resulting in remedial actions, such as immediate error correction. The present event-related functional magnetic resonance imaging study in humans examined the neural correlates of error detection and error correction using a speeded modified flankers task. In order to investigate corrective behaviour, participants were randomly divided into two groups. The correction instructed group was asked to correct all encountered errors immediately. The correction not instructed group was unaware that corrective responses were recorded. The intention to correct errors significantly increased the correction rate. Brain activations correlating with error detection were isolated in the rostral cingulate zone and in the pre-supplementary motor area, supporting their important role in error processing. Error correction activated similar brain regions, suggesting a common neuroanatomical substrate. Additional activations were found in the parietal cortex, representing an interconnected cortical network, which processes somatosensory information of tactile stimuli.
Fiehler
Katja
K
Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Stephanstrasse 1A, D-04103 Leipzig, Germany. fiehler@cbs.mpg.de
Ullsperger
Markus
M
von Cramon
D Yves
DY
D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001921:Brain / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology*; D001931:Brain Mapping / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D008606:Mental Processes / Q000502:physiology*; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D010775:Photic Stimulation / Q000379:methods; D011930:Reaction Time / Q000502:physiology