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Updated: Jul 13, 2026
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Design, Surface Treatment, Cellular Plating, and Culturing of Modular Neuronal Networks Composed of Functionally Inter-connected Circuits
Published on: April 15, 2015
Development of distinct control networks through segregation and integration
Damien A Fair1, Nico U F Dosenbach, Jessica A Church
1Departments of Neurology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA. damien.fair@wustl.edu
Summary
Brain network development in children involves integrating long-range connections and segregating short-range ones. Disruptions may underlie attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Neuroscience
- Cognitive Neuroscience
Background:
- Human attentional control relies on distinct frontoparietal and cinguloopercular networks.
- Neural network development involves experience-dependent activity and spontaneous cortical waves.
- These processes support integration and segregation of brain regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the development of control networks in children versus adults.
- To investigate the roles of neural integration and segregation in brain development.
Main Methods:
- Resting-state functional connectivity magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used.
- Correlations in spontaneous blood oxygenation level-dependent signal fluctuations were analyzed.
- Previously identified adult control networks were compared between age groups.
Main Results:
- Development of adult control networks involves segregation (decreased short-range connections).
- Development also involves integration (increased long-range connections).
Conclusions:
- Brain development entails both integration and segregation of neural networks.
- Delays or disruptions in these processes may contribute to disorders like ADHD, autism, and Tourette's syndrome.
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