Genetic and phylogenetic uncoupling of structure and function in human transmodal cortex

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science
• Evolutionary Biology

Background:

• Brain structure is genetically influenced and supports cognitive functions.
• The relationship between static brain architecture and flexible cognition remains poorly understood.
• Understanding structure-function coupling is key to explaining cognitive flexibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate how macroscale structure-function coupling in the cortex relates to cognition.
• To explore the genetic and evolutionary underpinnings of brain organization and function.
• To identify cortical regions supporting complex cognitive abilities.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized genetic, phylogenetic, and cognitive analyses.
• Examined structure-function coupling patterns in human and macaque brains.
• Utilized meta-analysis to link genetic control to cognitive functions.

Main Results:

• Human cortex shows highest structure-function coupling in unimodal areas, lowest in transmodal areas.
• Macaques exhibit similar patterns but with higher coupling in association cortices compared to humans.
• Regions with least genetic control are associated with social cognition and autobiographical memory.

Conclusions:

• Genetic and evolutionary divergence of structure and function in transmodal cortices likely supports advanced human cognition.
• The interplay between genetic control, evolutionary history, and brain function shapes cognitive capabilities.
• This research provides insights into the neural basis of complex cognitive functions.