Connection of Oscillation-Based Network Controllability With Cross-Frequency Coupling and Molecular Systems

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Brain Network Analysis
• Computational Psychiatry

Background:

• Controllability analysis quantifies how brain regions influence each other.
• Existing studies primarily use MRI; this research explores MEG data.
• Understanding frequency-specific brain dynamics is crucial for network function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate frequency-dependent characteristics of oscillation-based controllability using resting-state MEG data.
• To examine associations between controllability, cross-frequency coupling (PAC), and molecular systems.
• To map spatial patterns of brain controllability across different frequency bands.

Main Methods:

• Resting-state MEG data from 27 healthy participants were analyzed.
• Whole-brain source activities and functional connectivities (PLI) were reconstructed across frequency bands.
• Average/modal controllability (AC/MC) and phase-amplitude coupling (PAC) were calculated and spatially correlated with each other and with neurotransmitter receptor maps.

Main Results:

• Low-frequency (delta, theta, alpha) AC/MCs correlated spatially with each other and with PAC when sharing the same frequency band.
• Beta- and gamma-band AC/MCs also showed significant spatial correlations.
• Frequency-specific associations were found between controllability and distinct neurotransmitter systems.

Conclusions:

• This study pioneers the demonstration of frequency-dependent spatial patterns in oscillation-based controllability.
• These patterns are intrinsically linked to cross-frequency coupling and local molecular systems.
• Findings highlight the importance of frequency-specific analysis in understanding brain network organization and neurochemistry.