The physics of brain network structure, function and control

By Christopher W. Lynn, D. Bassett. Nature Reviews Physics, 2018

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The brain is characterized by heterogeneous patterns of structural connections supporting unparalleled feats of cognition and a wide range of behaviours. New non-invasive imaging techniques now allow comprehensive mapping of these patterns. However, a fundamental challenge remains to understand how the brain’s structural wiring supports cognitive processes, with major implications for personalized mental health treatments. Here, we review recent efforts to meet this challenge, drawing on physics intuitions, models and theories, spanning the domains of statistical mechanics, information theory, dynamical systems and control. We first describe the organizing principles of brain network architecture instantiated in structural wiring under constraints of spatial embedding and energy minimization. We then survey models of brain network function that stipulate how neural activity propagates along structural connections. Finally, we discuss perturbative experiments and models for brain network control; these use the physics of signal transmission along structural connections to infer intrinsic control processes that support goal-directed behaviour and to inform stimulation-based therapies for neurological and psychiatric disease. Throughout, we highlight open questions that invite the creative efforts of pioneering physicists.The brain is the quintessential complex system, boasting incredible feats of cognition and supporting a wide range of behaviours. Physics has much to offer in the quest to distil the brain’s complexity to a number of cogent organizing principles.Key pointsFrom the first measurement of the nerve impulse by Hermann von Helmholtz in 1849 to the cutting-edge superconducting devices used in magnetoencephalography, physics and neuroscience have always been inextricably linked.Today, network neuroscience — the study of the brain as a complex web of interacting components — draws intuitions and techniques from nearly every branch of physics.The architecture of structural connections between neurons or brain regions is constrained by requirements of energy minimization and efficient information transfer.The materialization of long-range correlations and synchronization from the collective firing of individual neurons conjures notions of emergence and criticality from statistical mechanics.Together, these investigations of brain network structure and function guide targeted treatments for cognitive disorders using theories of network control.Now more than ever, understanding the complexities of the mind lies at the feet of curious and pioneering physicists.

Subfields: Cognitive Neuroscience

View Paper: https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/4a6235431acb08bd0007ad5c2f4125c97fa036c2

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