Brain Circuitry of Consciousness: A Review of Current Models and a Novel Synergistic Model With Clinical Application.
Neurosurg Pract April 7, 2023
This review examines current models of the brain circuitry underlying consciousness and proposes a novel synergistic model with clinical applications. The authors argue that existing models, such as the Global Workspace Theory and Integrated Information Theory, each capture different aspects of consciousness but fail to provide a unified framework. Their proposed synergistic model integrates key features from multiple theories to better explain how distributed brain networks interact to generate conscious experience. The review suggests this model could improve diagnosis and treatment of disorders of consciousness, such as coma and vegetative states, by identifying specific circuit disruptions.