The relationship between the default mode network and the theory of mind network as revealed by psychedelics - A meta-analysis.
Carla Soares, Gerardo Gonzalo, João Castelhano, Miguel Castelo-Branco
Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews September 1, 2023 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105325 (opens in new tab) via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThe cingulate cortex, specifically Brodmann areas 23 and 31, is a key neural region where the Default Mode Network (DMN) and Theory of Mind (ToM) networks overlap. A meta-analysis of 88 studies with 2122 participants found that psychedelics affect this overlap, altering the neural basis of ToM and social cognition. These effects may underlie the therapeutic potential of psychedelics and deepen understanding of the neural correlates of the self.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Meta-analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 2,122 |
| Topics | Default mode network |
| Keywords | Meta-analysis Psychedelics Theory of mind |
| Key finding | The cingulate cortex (BA23 and BA31) plays a crucial role in the overlap between the DMN and ToM networks, and psychedelics affect their neural relationship. |
Abstract
The Default Mode Network (DMN) and the Theory of Mind (ToM) networks play a crucial role in our understanding of the neurocognition of the self. The DMN is commonly associated with introspection, while the ToM is involved in perspective-taking. There is no research investigating the overlap between the DMN and ToM in relation to causal effects such as induced by psychedelics, and their precise relationship remains therefore unknown. Psychedelics alter self-perception and modulate these networks, providing a unique opportunity to shed light on this relationship. We performed a quantitative meta-analysis of 88 studies with a total of 2122 participants to investigate the overlap between DMN and ToM and whether psychedelics affect their neural relationship. We found that the cingulate cortex (BA23 and BA31) plays a crucial role in the overlap between these networks which is substantiated by the effects of psychedelics. These compounds affect the neural basis of ToM and social cognition, which may underlie their therapeutic potential and deepen our understanding of the neural correlates of the self.