New research led by University of Sydney and Fudan University neuroscientists shows that spiral-like, rotational wave patterns (brain spirals) are widespread during both resting and cognitive task states. The properties of these brain spirals, such as their rotational directions and locations, are task relevant and can be used to classify different cognitive tasks.
“Our discovery could have the potential to advance powerful computing machines inspired by the intricate workings of the human brain,” said University of Sydney’s Dr. Pulin Gong, senior author of a paper published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour.
“The discovery opens up new avenues for understanding how the brain works and provides valuable insights into the fundamental functions of the human brain.”
“It could help medical researchers understand the effects of brain diseases, such as dementia, by examining the role they play.”
“Our study suggests that gaining insights into how the spirals are related to cognitive processing could significantly enhance our understanding of the dynamics and functions of the brain.”
“These spiral patterns exhibit intricate and complex dynamics, moving across the brain’s surface while rotating around central points known as phase singularities.”
“Much like vortices act in turbulence, the spirals engage in intricate interactions, playing a crucial role in organizing the brain’s complex activities.”
“The intricate interactions among multiple co-existing spirals could allow neural computations to be conducted in a distributed and parallel manner, leading to remarkable computational efficiency.”
The location of the spirals on the cortex could allow them to connect activity in different sections, or networks, of the brain — acting as a bridge of communication.
Many of the spirals are large enough to cover multiple networks.
The cortex of the brain, also known as the…
Read the full article here