Contrasting network and modular perspectives on inhibitory control.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Brain Function

Background:

• A dominant theory posits a specific region in the right inferior frontal cortex for motor response inhibition.
• Emerging evidence challenges this dedicated inhibitory control hypothesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present an alternative hypothesis for response inhibition.
• To propose that response inhibition is part of a broader set of control processes.
• To highlight the role of domain-general frontoparietal networks.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing evidence.
• Theoretical discussion of neural network mechanisms.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests response inhibition is not exclusively localized.
• Frontoparietal networks support multiple control functions.
• Modulation of local lateral inhibition by these networks is proposed.

Conclusions:

• Response inhibition is an instance of a broader cognitive control function.
• Domain-general frontoparietal networks are crucial for diverse cognitive processes.
• A holistic approach is needed to understand the neural basis of behavioral control.