Default mode and frontoparietal control networks bridge memory and choice consistency

Choice consistency denotes the capacity to maintain stable, coherent preferences across diverse contexts-a cornerstone of rational decision-making. However, real-world decisions frequently diverge from normative models, marked by inconsistencies and irrationalities. Memory processes may underlie this variability, influencing the formation and maintenance of choice consistency. Yet, the interplay between memory and choice consistency, particularly their shared neural substrates, remains poorly understood. To address these gaps, we developed a novel behavioral paradigm integrating memory retrieval and food-based decision tasks. Resting-state and task functional magnetic resonance imaging data were acquired from 44 healthy young adults (age range: 18 to 27 years). Behaviorally, remembered food items exhibited significantly faster choice reaction times compared to forgotten items. Leveraging data-driven connectome-based predictive modeling of resting-state functional connectivity, we identified distinct neural predictors: intra-default mode network connectivity and default mode network-memory network connectivity positively predicted memory accuracy, whereas default mode network-frontoparietal control network connectivity negatively predicted memory accuracy. Furthermore, intra-default mode network connectivity and default mode network-frontoparietal control network connectivity positively predicted choice consistency. These findings advance our understanding of memory-decision interactions, highlighting the default mode network and frontoparietal control network as critical neural substrates that bridge mnemonically modulated value signals and choice consistency.