Visceral Signals Shape Brain Dynamics and Cognition.

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Neuroscience
• Psychology

Background:

• Traditional cognitive neuroscience focuses on external stimuli processing.
• The brain also receives continuous input from internal bodily systems.
• The heart and gastrointestinal (GI) tract possess intrinsic electrical activity, generating ascending signals to the brain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of intrinsic visceral signals in shaping brain dynamics.
• To explore how cardiac and GI signals influence resting-state networks and cognition.
• To discuss the implications for understanding the mind-body connection.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of current research.
• Discussion of existing interpretative frameworks for visceral input.
• Conceptual analysis of the interplay between visceral signals and brain function.

Main Results:

• Ascending signals from the heart and GI tract actively shape resting-state brain dynamics.
• These visceral inputs complement canonical resting-state networks (RSNs).
• Cardiac signals modulate external sensory processing and internal cognition.

Conclusions:

• Visceral inputs play a crucial role in brain function, influencing cognition, emotion, and consciousness.
• This research opens new theoretical avenues blurring the lines between mind and body.
• Understanding the gut-brain and heart-brain axes is vital for a holistic view of the brain.