Multimodal MRI reveals brainstem connections that sustain wakefulness in human consciousness.
Science translational medicine May 1, 2024 Brian L Edlow, Mark Olchanyi, Holly J Freeman et al. 39 citations
A proposed subcortical arousal network, crucial for wakefulness, has been mapped in the human brain, revealing connections between key areas like the brainstem and hypothalamus. Utilizing data from three neurologically normal individuals' brains and advanced imaging techniques, this study identified pathways linking the default ascending arousal network with the cortical default mode network. Notably, the dopaminergic ventral tegmental area emerged as a central hub connecting these networks. This work enhances our understanding of how arousal and awareness integrate in human consciousness.