Functional connectivity in the resting brain: A network analysis of the default mode hypothesis

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0135058100
• Publication Date: 2003-01-07T12:22:42Z
• Authors: Michael D. Greicius; Ben Krasnow; Allan L. Reiss; Vinod Menon
• Keywords: Posterior cingulate; Task-positive network; Elementary cognitive task; Human brain

Functional imaging studies have shown that certain brain regions, including posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and ventral anterior (vACC), consistently show greater activity during resting states than cognitive tasks. This finding led to the hypothesis these regions constitute a network supporting default mode of function. In this study, we investigate three questions pertaining hypothesis: Does such resting-state exist in human brain? Is it modulated simple sensory processing? How is To address questions, defined PCC vACC showed decreased (working memory) task, then examined their functional connectivity rest. was strongly coupled with several other implicated network. Next, visual processing task resultant maps are virtually identical those obtained Last, lateral prefrontal showing increased connectivity. We report significant inverse correlations among all PCC, suggesting mechanism for attenuation processing. study constitutes, our knowledge, first analysis provides most compelling evidence date existence cohesive Our findings also provide insight into how by demands what functions might subserve.