京都大学研究团队通过开发新训练方法成功实现了小鼠的快速习惯形成，并在此过程中发现了调控习惯形成的两个独立神经回路[1]。研究表明，习惯的形成涉及从目标导向行为向习惯性行为的复杂转变过程[1]，这一过程比传统认知更加复杂。
研究者Nozomi Asaoka、Diane Pagano和Yasunori Hayashi发现，第一个神经回路从前扣带皮层投射至后扣带皮层，负责决定某个行为是否转化为习惯[1]；第二个神经回路则从外侧眶额皮层投射至中央纹状体，控制习惯执行的强度[1]。这两个回路各司其职，共同管理习惯形成的不同方面。该研究采用两阶段训练方法——先训练目标导向策略，随后进行四天训练以促进习惯性策略的采用[1]。研究还发现，不同个体的习惯执行强度存在显著差异[1]。
这项研究成果已发表于《自然通讯》期刊[1]。
Researchers at Kyoto University have uncovered two separate neural pathways that govern different aspects of habit formation, revealing the process to be more complex than previously understood.[1] The team, led by Nozomi Asaoka, Diane Pagano, and Yasunori Hayashi, discovered that one neural circuit determines whether a behavior becomes habitual, while a second circuit controls the intensity with which habits are executed.[1]
The first pathway involves neural projections from the anterior cingulate cortex to the posterior cingulate cortex, while the second runs from the lateral orbitofrontal cortex to the central striatum.[1] To identify these circuits, the researchers developed a novel two-stage training method that initially establishes goal-directed behavior before a four-day training period promotes the adoption of habitual strategies.[1] The study demonstrated significant variation among individual subjects in how strongly they executed their habits, indicating that habit formation involves a transition from goal-directed action to habitual behavior that differs across individuals.[1]
The findings were published in Nature Communications, volume 17, article 6822 in 2026.[1]