Computational Models of Interoception and Body Regulation

To survive, organisms must effectively respond to the challenge of maintaining their physiological integrity in the face of an ever-changing environment. Preserving this homeostasis critically relies on adaptive behavior. In this review, we consider recent frameworks that extend classical homeostatic control via reflex arcs to include more flexible forms of adaptive behavior that take interoceptive context, experiences, and expectations into account. Specifically, we define a landscape for computational models of interoception, body regulation, and forecasting, address these models' unique challenges in relation to translational research efforts, and discuss what they can teach us about cognition as well as physical and mental health.

Automated summary

Organisms need to effectively respond to environmental changes to maintain physiological integrity, relying on adaptive behaviors. Recent frameworks have expanded to include more flexible adaptive behaviors, taking into account interoceptive context, experiences, and expectations. Computational models of interoception, body regulation, and forecasting provide insights into cognition and physical/mental health.