Metaanalytic connectivity modeling: delineating the functional connectivity of the human amygdala.
Functional neuroimaging has evolved into an indispensable tool for noninvasively investigating brain function. A recent development of such methodology is the creation of connectivity models for brain regions and related networks, efforts that have been inhibited by notable limitations. We present a new method for ascertaining functional connectivity of specific brain structures using metaanalytic connectivity modeling (MACM), along with validation of our method using a nonhuman primate database. Drawing from decades of neuroimaging research and spanning multiple behavioral domains, the method overcomes many weaknesses of conventional connectivity analyses and provides a simple, automated alternative to developing accurate and robust models of anatomically-defined human functional connectivity. Applying MACM to the amygdala, a small structure of the brain with a complex network of connections, we found high coherence with anatomical studies in nonhuman primates as well as human-based theoretical models of emotive-cognitive integration, providing evidence for this novel method's utility.
Robinson
Jennifer L
JL
Neuroscience Institute, Scott and White Memorial Hospital, Temple, Texas 76508, USA. jrobinson@swmail.sw.org
Laird
Angela R
AR
Glahn
David C
DC
Lovallo
William R
WR
Fox
Peter T
PT
D000679:Amygdala / Q000502:physiology*; D000818:Animals; D001331:Automation; D001921:Brain / Q000502:physiology; D016208:Databases, Factual; D007839:Functional Laterality; D000882:Haplorhini; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008959:Models, Neurological; D009434:Neural Pathways / Q000502:physiology