Multimodal Neuroimaging of Cognitive Control

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In the current study we investigate performance-related changes in activity and intensity of functional brain networks involved in cognitive control. We propose a multimodal approach, using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and magnetoencephalograpy (MEG) to identify these networks. We also propose use of repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to disrupt the function of network nodes, providing stronger causal evidence that these networks affect behaviour. Through access to combined TMS and electroencephalography (EEG), confirmation that the targeted networks were affected will be achieved by using MEG network analysis strategies on EEG data. Approximately 2 multimodal experiments per year will be carried out (4-6 neuroimaging sessions per subject) on samples of 20 subjects per study. Cognitive paradigms involving task switching and integration of evidence will be used to drive these brain networks and understand how their activation/deactivation is associated with performance (i.e., speed, accuracy, and ratings of evidence integration). The same experimental design will be used for fMRI, MEG and rTMS/EEG. Our methodology allows the study of the standard networks measurable with fMRI, confirmation of these with MEG, the discovery of new networks measurable with MEG, demonstration of the involvement of these networks in the hypothesized tasks using TMS, and EEG simultaneous with TMS to confirm the interruption to the networks detected with fMRI and MEG. This comprehensive methodology will increase understanding of the neural networks underlying task switching and evidence integration, the former being an integral aspect of general cognitive performance, and the latter taking an important role in the formation and revision of beliefs.