A hierarchical model of early brain functional network development

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Neuroscience
• Cognitive Neuroscience

Background:

• Functional brain networks form prenatally and mature through childhood.
• Network development involves optimizing internal structure and inter-network communication.
• This process underpins the emergence of complex behaviors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review two decades of research on functional brain network development.
• To connect functional network maturation with behavioral development.
• To provide a holistic view of brain and behavior development.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of existing research on functional brain network development.
• Analysis of developmental trajectories from infancy to adulthood.
• Examination of network interactions and topology changes.

Main Results:

• Brain network development follows an overlapping hierarchical model.
• Progression from primary sensory/motor to socioemotional, then executive control networks.
• Early network development influences later cognitive and emotional functions.

Conclusions:

• Functional network development is a hierarchical and interactive process.
• Understanding network trajectories can inform early identification of developmental risks.
• Future research should focus on imaging-assisted interventions for neurodevelopmental disorders.