2017 February 23 | Danielle S Bassett and Olaf Sporns
Network neuroscience is an emerging field that aims to understand complex brain function and cognition by integrating empirical and computational approaches. It involves mapping, recording, analyzing, and modeling the interactions within neurobiological systems. Recent advances in empirical tools and network science have enabled the study of brain networks at multiple scales, from molecular to whole-brain levels. These tools allow for the analysis of dynamic patterns, network manipulation, and integration across spatiotemporal domains. The field emphasizes the importance of network structures and processes that support integrative brain function across multiple scales. Network neuroscience has the potential to transform how we understand brain structure and function by providing new frameworks for inquiry. It also offers opportunities for predicting system function and testing hypotheses through network-based models. The field is expanding to include studies of brain-behavior relationships, social networks, and the integration of multi-scale data. Network science tools are well-suited for bridging different levels of organization, integrating diverse data sets, and providing insights into complex biological systems. The future of network neuroscience lies in developing new theories and methods to better understand brain function and address challenges in neuroscience.Network neuroscience is an emerging field that aims to understand complex brain function and cognition by integrating empirical and computational approaches. It involves mapping, recording, analyzing, and modeling the interactions within neurobiological systems. Recent advances in empirical tools and network science have enabled the study of brain networks at multiple scales, from molecular to whole-brain levels. These tools allow for the analysis of dynamic patterns, network manipulation, and integration across spatiotemporal domains. The field emphasizes the importance of network structures and processes that support integrative brain function across multiple scales. Network neuroscience has the potential to transform how we understand brain structure and function by providing new frameworks for inquiry. It also offers opportunities for predicting system function and testing hypotheses through network-based models. The field is expanding to include studies of brain-behavior relationships, social networks, and the integration of multi-scale data. Network science tools are well-suited for bridging different levels of organization, integrating diverse data sets, and providing insights into complex biological systems. The future of network neuroscience lies in developing new theories and methods to better understand brain function and address challenges in neuroscience.