How to Characterize the Function of a Brain Region

Sarah Genon*, Andrew Reid, Robert Langner, Katrin Amunts, Simon B. Eickhoff

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

149 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Many brain regions have been defined, but a comprehensive formalization of each region's function in relation to human behavior is still lacking. Current knowledge comes from various fields, which have diverse conceptions of ‘functions’. We briefly review these fields and outline how the heterogeneity of associations could be harnessed to disclose the computational function of any region. Aggregating activation data from neuroimaging studies allows us to characterize the functional engagement of a region across a range of experimental conditions. Furthermore, large-sample data can disclose covariation between brain region features and ecological behavioral phenotyping. Combining these two approaches opens a new perspective to determine the behavioral associations of a brain region, and hence its function and broader role within large-scale functional networks.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)350-364
Number of pages15
JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences
Volume22
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Apr 2018
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • brain mapping
  • BrainMap
  • data-driven
  • Functional specialization
  • MRI
  • Neurosynth

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