Granger causal connectivity dissociates navigation networks that subserve allocentric and egocentric path integration.

Granger causal connectivity dissociates navigation networks that subserve allocentric and egocentric path integration.
Brain Res. 2017 Nov 17;:
Authors: Lin CT, Chiu TC, Wang YK, Chuang CH, Gramann K
Abstract
Studies on spatial navigation demonstrate a significant role of the retrosplenial complex (RSC) in the transformation of egocentric and allocentric information into complementary spatial reference frames (SRFs). The tight anatomical connections of the RSC with a wide range of other cortical regions processing spatial information support its vital role within the human navigation network. To better understand how different areas of the navigational network interact, we investigated the dynamic causal interactions of brain regions involved in solving a virtual navigation task. EEG signals were decomposed by independent component analysis (ICA) and subsequently examined for information flow between clusters of independent components (ICs) using direct short-time directed transfer function (sdDTF). The results revealed information flow between the anterior cingulate cortex and the left prefrontal cortex in the theta (4-7 Hz) frequency band and between the prefrontal, motor, parietal, and occipital cortices as well as the RSC in the alpha (8-13 Hz) frequency band. When participants preference to use distinct reference frames (egocentric vs. allocentric) during navigation was considered, a dominant occipito-parieto-RSC network was ide...

Source: Brain Research - November 17, 2017 Category: Neurology Authors: Lin CT, Chiu TC, Wang YK, Chuang CH, Gramann K Tags: Brain Res Source Type: research