Functional Parcellation of the Default Mode Network: A Large-Scale Meta-Analysis

The default mode network (DMN) is a set of brain regions that work together to support different types of thinking. Three key regions—the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), temporal parietal junction (TPJ), and medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC)—are often highlighted, but their unique roles in specific cognitive processes and health conditions were unclear. Using a meta-analytic parcellation approach with the Neurosynth database, the authors found that these regions collectively support functions like decision making, memory, and awareness. Further analysis showed each region can be subdivided into functionally distinct subcomponents, each with different strengths of association across cognitive processes and health conditions, highlighting the need for nuanced understanding of DMN specialization.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract The default mode network (DMN) consists of several regions that selectively interact to support distinct domains of cognition. Of the various sites that partake in DMN function, the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), temporal parietal junction (TPJ), and medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC) are frequently identified as key contributors. Yet, it remains unclear whether these subcomponents of the DMN make unique contributions to specific cognitive processes and health conditions. To address this issue, we applied a meta-analytic parcellation approach used in prior work. This approach used the Neurosynth database and classification methods to quantify the association between PCC, TPJ, and MPFC activation and specific topics related to cognition and health (e.g., decision making and smoking). Our analyses replicated prior observations that the PCC, TPJ, and MPFC collectively support multiple cognitive functions such as decision making, memory, and awareness. To gain insight into the functional organization of each region, we parceled each region based on its coactivation pattern with the rest of the brain. This analysis indicated that each region could be further subdivided into functionally distinct subcomponents. Taken together, we further delineate DMN function by demonstrating the relative strengths of association among subcomponents across a range of cognitive processes and health conditions. A continued attentiveness to the specialization within the DMN allows future work to consider the nuances in sub-regional contributions necessary for healthy cognition, as well as create the potential for more targeted treatment protocols in various health conditions.