Controllability of structural brain networks

Cognitive function is driven by dynamic interactions between large-scale neural circuits or networks, enabling behaviour. However, fundamental principles constraining these dynamic network processes have remained elusive. Here we use tools from control and network theories to offer a mechanistic explanation for how the brain moves between cognitive states drawn from the network organization of white matter microstructure. Our results suggest that densely connected areas, particularly in the default mode system, facilitate the movement of the brain to many easily reachable states. Weakly connected areas, particularly in cognitive control systems, facilitate the movement of the brain to difficult-to-reach…

• NS
  National Science Foundation

  Awards: BCS-1441502, W911NF-10-2-0022, 1441502, 1430279
• AP
  Alfred P. Sloan Foundation

  Awards: W911NF-10-2-0022, BCS-1441502
• UO
  University of Pennsylvania
• IF
  Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics
• AR
  Army Research Office

  Awards: W911NF-09-0001, BCS-1441502, W911NF-10-2-0022, W911NF
• AR
  Army Research Laboratory

  Awards: W911NF-10-2-0022, W911NF, W911NF-09-0001, BCS-1441502
• IF
  Institute for Collaborative Biotechnologies

  Award: W911NF-09-0001