tell me about the anterior midcingulate cortex (aMCC)

The anterior midcingulate cortex (aMCC) is a brain hub involved in allocating effort and energy when we face challenges—supporting tenacity, motivation, and willpower. 1

• 1. Strong input from reward and autonomic systems: The aMCC communicates with autonomic centers that influence functions such as heart rate and breathing, as well as reward pathways including dopamine systems. It also receives information about the body and the surrounding context. 2
• 2. Size and challenge-related behavior: The aMCC is reported to be smaller in people with obesity and to increase in size with dieting, athletic training, and overcoming challenges; the account emphasizes doing something you find challenging or would rather avoid. 3
• 3. Activity, motivation, and resisting temptation: Greater aMCC activity is associated with persistence and willingness to exert effort. In successful dieters, activity rises when they resist tempting food. 4 5
• 4. Reduced activity and motivation: Disruptions or lesions affecting the aMCC are associated with increased apathy and depression and reduced tenacity and motivation; reduced activity is also reported in people with depression and apathy. 6