A synergistic workspace for human consciousness revealed by Integrated Information Decomposition.
eLife July 18, 2024 Andrea I Luppi, Pedro A M Mediano, Fernando E Rosas et al. 1 citation
Loss of consciousness significantly disrupts the brain's ability to integrate information. In a study involving functional MRI analysis, it was revealed that gateway regions in a 'synergistic global workspace' correspond to the default mode network, while broadcaster regions align with the executive control network. This integration breakdown occurs during general anaesthesia or disorders of consciousness, with recovery restoring functionality. The findings enhance understanding of consciousness by bridging Global Neuronal Workspace and Integrated Information Theory, highlighting the critical role of brain networks in maintaining conscious experience.