Abstract:

The mammalian navigation system comprises various kinds of neurons responsible for position perception and spatial path planning, involving the integration of multiple information sources. As a unified brain theory capable of providing explanations for complex cognitive functions like memory and decision-making, the theory of attractor dynamics can elucidate the firing dynamics of neurons and path integration in the navigation system. This review describes recent advances in attractor dynamics in spatial cognition. First, it provides a brief overview of computational neuroscience and the general theory of attractor dynamics. Subsequently, focusing on the continuous attractor dynamics, it delves into the dynamical characteristics and functional significance of head direction cells and grid cells. Finally, an extension and prospects of the attractor theory for spatial cognition are presented.

Key words:  computational neuroscience, attractor dynamics, navigation, head direction cells; grid cells