Brain and cognitive reserve: Translation via network control theory

John Dominic Medaglia, Fabio Pasqualetti, Roy H. Hamilton, Sharon L. Thompson-Schill, Danielle S. Bassett
2017 Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews  
Traditional approaches to understanding the brain's resilience to neuropathology have identified neurophysiological variables, often described as brain or cognitive "reserve," associated with better outcomes. However, mechanisms of function and resilience in large-scale brain networks remain poorly understood. Dynamic network theory may provide a basis for substantive advances in understanding functional resilience in the human brain. In this perspective, we describe recent theoretical
more » ... s from network control theory as a framework for investigating network level mechanisms underlying cognitive function and the dynamics of neuroplasticity in the human brain. We describe the theoretical opportunities offered by the application of network control theory at the level of the human connectome to understand cognitive resilience and inform translational intervention.
doi:10.1016/j.neubiorev.2017.01.016 pmid:28104411 pmcid:PMC5359115 fatcat:tzquifkopbdhnh4ufrm4vknoqm