Default mode network connectivity during task execution

D Vatansever, D K Menon, A E Manktelow, B J Sahakian, E A Stamatakis

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Initially described as task-induced deactivations during goal-directed paradigms of high attentional load, the unresolved functionality of default mode regions has long been assumed to interfere with task performance. However, recent evidence suggests a potential default mode network involvement in fulfilling cognitive demands. We tested this hypothesis in a finger opposition paradigm with task and fixation periods which we compared with an independent resting state scan using functional magnetic resonance imaging and a comprehensive analysis pipeline including activation, functional connectivity, behavioural and graph theoretical assessments. The results indicate task specific changes in the default mode network topography. Behaviourally, we show that increased connectivity of the posterior cingulate cortex with the left superior frontal gyrus predicts faster reaction times. Moreover, interactive and dynamic reconfiguration of the default mode network regions' functional connections illustrates their involvement with the task at hand with higher-level global parallel processing power, yet preserved small-world architecture in comparison with rest. These findings demonstrate that the default mode network does not disengage during this paradigm, but instead may be involved in task relevant processing.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)96-104
Number of pages9
JournalNeuroimage
Volume122
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 Nov 2015

Keywords

  • Adult
  • Brain
  • Brain Mapping
  • Cognition
  • Data Interpretation, Statistical
  • Female
  • Frontal Lobe
  • Gyrus Cinguli
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Models, Neurological
  • Motor Activity
  • Neural Pathways
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Psychomotor Performance
  • Reaction Time
  • Young Adult
  • Journal Article
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

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