Neurobiology of habit formation

Our knowledge of the brain changes that enable habits to be formed continues to grow rapidly. As a key hub for habits, many studies have focused on neurobiological processes related to habits in the striatum. Attention has been paid to the contributions of the direct and indirect pathways, interneurons, dopaminergic inputs, and potential cortical and amygdala influences. We highlight this research here and conclude with a discussion of several additional topics that are also being addressed to propel our understanding of habits further forward.