# Understanding the neural architecture of emotion regulation by comparing two different strategies: A meta-analytic approach

**Authors:** Bianca Monachesi, Alessandro Grecucci, Parisa Ahmadi Ghomroudi, Irene Messina  
**arXiv:** [2305.16241](https://arxiv.org/abs/2305.16241)  
**Date:** 2023-05-25  
**Summary page:** https://www.summarizepaper.com/en/paper/2305.16241v1/

## Key points

- Study explores neural architecture of emotion regulation through cognitive reappraisal and acceptance-based strategies
- Utilizes Activation Likelihood Estimation (ALE) method with functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI)
- Common regulatory mechanisms shared by both strategies identified
- Unique brain activity patterns for each strategy observed
- Increased activity in left-inferior frontal gyrus and insula for both reappraisal and acceptance
- Decreased activity in basal ganglia for reappraisal and limbic regions for acceptance
- Meta-analysis provides insights into neural underpinnings of emotion regulation
- Highlights core inhibitory circuit supporting top-down and bottom-up processes specific to different strategies
- Expands on existing dual-routes models to understand interplay between executive functions, emotional processing, and regulatory mechanisms

## Summary

The study "Understanding the neural architecture of emotion regulation by comparing two different strategies: A meta-analytic approach" explores the mechanisms behind cognitive reappraisal and acceptance-based strategies in emotion regulation. Using an Activation Likelihood Estimation (ALE) method, functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) studies investigating brain activity during these strategies are quantitatively compared to baseline. The results reveal common regulatory mechanisms shared by both approaches, as well as unique brain activity patterns for each. Specifically, increased activity is found in the left-inferior frontal gyrus and insula for both reappraisal and acceptance, with decreased activity in the basal ganglia for reappraisal and limbic regions for acceptance. This meta-analysis contributes valuable insights into the neural underpinnings of emotion regulation, highlighting a core inhibitory circuit that supports various top-down and bottom-up processes specific to different strategies. By expanding on existing dual-routes models, this study sheds light on the complex interplay between executive functions, emotional processing, and regulatory mechanisms involved in effectively managing emotions.