Integrating intra- and intermodal networks through oscillatory neuronal synchronization

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Everyday events are typically complex and perceived by more than one sensory modality. In the human brain, information perceived by different sensory inputs is processed in specialised, functionally and spatially distributed areas with unique functional roles like processing visual, tactile, or auditory input or controlling motor output. Although these areas are distributed, they have to communicate and interact effectively when processing an event represented by more than one sensory input. Such effective interaction requires that neurons in distributed areas dynamically link to coherent neuronal groups. Despite being crucial for understanding the brain, the mechanisms of this integration process are not well understood. One prominent candidate mechanism for the integration of distributed brain areas is oscillatory neuronal synchronisation. It has been demonstrated that neurons show oscillatory firing patterns and that they synchronise their oscillatory behaviour when they process a common sensory event. Neurons can oscillate in different frequencies with different frequency bands having distinct functions. Synchronous oscillations in different neuronal groups might offer a mechanism for linking these groups to a network. While there is mounting evidence for the functional role of oscillatory neuronal synchronisation in local neuronal networks, its role for neuronal integration of distributed areas is still elusive.Using different, complementary approaches like psychophysics, whole-head Magnetoencephalography (MEG) and transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), this research proposal will study the role of oscillatory neuronal synchronisation for the integration and interaction of distributed brain areas. We will perform the research on intra- and intersensory neuronal networks in the somatosensory and the visual modalities to study dynamic information flow and network plasticity in the brain on a timescale of a few milliseconds and its impact on perception and behaviour.