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Updated: Jun 15, 2026
12:09
Network Analysis of the Default Mode Network Using Functional Connectivity MRI in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Published on: August 5, 2014
Functional-anatomic fractionation of the brain's default network
Jessica R Andrews-Hanna1, Jay S Reidler, Jorge Sepulcre
1Department of Psychology and Center for Brain Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA. jessica.andrews-hanna@colorado.edu <jessica.andrews-hanna@colorado.edu>
Neuron
|March 2, 2010
Summary
The brain's default network has distinct parts. One part aids self-relevant decisions, while another helps construct mental scenes from memory for future thought.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Functional Neuroimaging
Background:
- The default network (DN) is consistently active during passive states in functional imaging studies.
- Its precise role in spontaneous cognition versus active decision-making remains debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the anatomy and function of the default network.
- To resolve conflicting hypotheses regarding its contribution to cognition and decision-making.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of intrinsic brain activity across three studies.
- Examination of default network components during various cognitive tasks.
Main Results:
- The default network consists of multiple, distinct components.
- A midline core (posterior cingulate, anterior medial prefrontal cortex) activates during self-relevant, affective decisions.
- A medial temporal lobe subsystem engages during memory-based scene construction for decisions.
Conclusions:
- The default network's components dissociate based on cognitive demands.
- Simultaneous engagement of these components supports constructing mental models for future-oriented thought.
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