Neural signatures representing threats along the predatory imminence continuum during dynamic predator-prey interaction

Predator-prey interactions are dynamic and require prey to draw on a repertoire of adaptive survival responses. However, how humans encode threats along the predatory imminence continuum to facilitate escape during such interactions remains unclear. We developed a dynamic predator-prey interaction paradigm combining multiple-modality measures and machine-learning-based fMRI predictive modelling to investigate how humans represent threats and make escape decisions using 11 datasets. The paradigm was systematically validated by subjective ratings, escape rates and autonomic responses. Escape decisions relied more on assessing distance to refuge (DTR), although the trade-off between flight initiation distance and DTR also contributed. Importantly, we developed and validated stage-specific-multivariate brain signatures representing threats, encompassing distinct distributed cortical and subcortical systems. These signatures could be generalized to negative emotional experiences, conditioned fear, pain perception, and outcome anticipation. We provide new evidence for how humans respond to threats along the predatory imminence continuum and the stage-specific brain signatures involved.