The GridCAT: A toolbox for automated analysis of human grid cell codes in fMRI

Abstract

Human fMRI studies examining the putative firing of grid cells (i.e., the grid code) suggest that this cellular mechanism supports not only spatial navigation, but also more abstract cognitive processes. This research area, however, remains relatively unexplored, perhaps us to the complexities of data analysis. To overcome this, we have developed the Matlab-based Grid Code Analysis Toolbox (GridCAT), providing a graphical user interface, and open-source code, for the analysis of fMRI data. The GridCAT performs all analyses, from estimation and fitting of the grid code in the general linear model, to the generation of grid code metrics and plots. Moreover, it is flexible in allowing the specification of bespoke analysis pipelines; example data are provided to demonstrate the GridCATs main functionality. We believe the GridCAT is essential to opening this research area to the imaging community, and helping to elucidate the role of human grid codes in higher-order cognitive processes.\n\nHighlightsO_LIThe putative firing of grid cells (i.e., the grid code) can be examined using fMRI\nC_LIO_LINecessary steps for grid code analysis are reviewed\nC_LIO_LIThe Matlab-based grid code analysis toolbox (GridCAT) is introduced\nC_LIO_LIAutomated grid code analysis can be conducted either via a graphical user interface or open-source code\nC_LIO_LIA detailed manual and an example dataset are provided\nC_LI