Higher Intelligence Is Associated with Less Task-Related Brain Network Reconfiguration

• DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0358-16.2016
• Publication Date: 2016-08-17T16:02:44Z
• Authors: Douglas H. Schultz; Michael W. Cole
• Keywords: Control reconfiguration; Elementary cognitive task

The human brain is able to exceed modern computers on multiple computational demands (e.g., language, planning) using a small fraction of the energy. mystery how can be so efficient compounded by recent evidence that all regions are constantly active as they interact in so-called resting-state networks (RSNs). To investigate brain9s ability process complex cognitive efficiently, we compared functional connectivity (FC) during rest and highly distinct tasks. We found previously RSNs present wide variety tasks only minimally modify FC patterns throughout brain. Here, tested hypothesis that, although subtle, these task-evoked updates from nonetheless contribute strongly behavioral performance. One might expect larger changes reflect optimization for task at hand, improving Alternatively, smaller could (i.e., small) network updates, reducing processing improve across three domains high-performing individuals exhibited more form architecture between task. These suggest with an optimized intrinsic configuration domain-general performance experience generally. Confirming this, update efficiency correlated general intelligence. reconfiguration therefore appears key feature contributing both its dynamics ability. <b>SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT</b> varies based current demands. For example, connections organized one way when resting quietly but another if asked make decision. organization positively related intelligence, perform cognitively challenging well. Specifically, was already closer configurations intelligent individuals. This suggests efficiently change hallmark high