Temporal circuit of macroscale dynamic brain activity supports human consciousness

Consciousness depends on frequent access between two key brain networks: the default mode network and the dorsal attention network, which normally alternate their activity in an anticorrelated manner. A 'temporal circuit' of dynamic brain activity trajectories regulates transitions between these networks. Balanced reciprocal accessibility of brain states within this circuit characterizes consciousness, while isolation of the networks from the temporal circuit is associated with unresponsiveness from various causes. These findings advance understanding of how anticorrelated brain systems support consciousness.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Neuroimaging suggests that human consciousness relies on frequent access to default mode and dorsal attention brain networks. The ongoing stream of human consciousness relies on two distinct cortical systems, the default mode network and the dorsal attention network, which alternate their activity in an anticorrelated manner. We examined how the two systems are regulated in the conscious brain and how they are disrupted when consciousness is diminished. We provide evidence for a “temporal circuit” characterized by a set of trajectories along which dynamic brain activity occurs. We demonstrate that the transitions between default mode and dorsal attention networks are embedded in this temporal circuit, in which a balanced reciprocal accessibility of brain states is characteristic of consciousness. Conversely, isolation of the default mode and dorsal attention networks from the temporal circuit is associated with unresponsiveness of diverse etiologies. These findings advance the foundational understanding of the functional role of anticorrelated systems in consciousness.