Cognitive task information is transferred between brain regions via resting-state network topology

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science
• Network Science

Background:

• Resting-state network connectivity is linked to cognitive abilities.
• The precise computational role of this connectivity in cognition remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test if resting-state functional network topology explains how brain regions computationally map and transfer cognitive task information.
• To investigate the large-scale network mechanisms underlying cognitive task information processing.

Main Methods:

• Developed a novel 'information transfer mapping' approach.
• Estimated activity flow through resting-state network connections.
• Analyzed the transfer of task-rule information in distributed brain regions.

Main Results:

• Task-rule information transfer across brain regions was predictable from resting-state network activity flow.
• Global hub regions within cognitive control networks were found to coordinate these information transfers.
• Demonstrated a link between resting-state network topology and cognitive task performance.

Conclusions:

• Resting-state network connections provide a mechanism for large-scale cognitive task information transfer.
• Global hub regions play a crucial role in coordinating information across the brain.
• Resting-state network topology is cognitively relevant and reflects underlying computational mappings.