Journal Article

FZJ-2026-02186

http://join2-wiki.gsi.de/foswiki/pub/Main/Artwork/join2_logo100x88.png Sender–receiver subdivisions of the default mode network in perceptual and memory-guided cognition

Zhang, M. ; Paquola, C.FZJ* ; Krieger-Redwood, K. ; Mckeown, B. ; Murphy, C. ; Liu, C. ; Leech, R. ; Smallwood, J. ; Jefferies, E. (Corresponding author)

2026
National Acad. of Sciences Washington, DC

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Please use a persistent id in citations: doi:10.1073/pnas.2528851123

Abstract: Everyday cognition depends on the brain’s capacity to shift between sensing the external world and constructing it from memory. To achieve this, large-scale cortical systems must flexibly integrate incoming sensory signals with internally generated representations. Here, we show that this flexibility is reflected in the macroscale architecture of the default mode network (DMN). Using convergent analyses across three independent fMRI datasets spanning directional connectivity, intrinsic organization, and task-evoked responses, we identify spatially distinct DMN subregions that are preferentially engaged during perceptual decisions about faces or memory-guided decisions based on previously seen images. These subregions correspond to a microarchitectural distinction, captured via directional and intrinsic connectivity profiles: regions preferentially engaged during face perception align with receiver-like, afferent-biased zones that show strong intrinsic connectivity across the heteromodal cortex, a profile that might support information integration during perceptually guided decision-making. In contrast, memory-guided, perceptually decoupled decisions differentially engage sender-like, efferent-biased zones that show broader connectivity with perceptual-motor and attentional systems beyond the DMN. This double dissociation demonstrates a systematic association between DMN connectivity and engagement during perceptually coupled versus memory-guided cognitive processes, providing an organizational account of how DMN architecture relates to flexible human thought.

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Contributing Institute(s):

1. Gehirn & Verhalten (INM-7)

Research Program(s):

1. 5251 - Multilevel Brain Organization and Variability (POF4-525) (POF4-525)

Appears in the scientific report 2026

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Database coverage:
; BIOSIS Previews ; Biological Abstracts ; Clarivate Analytics Master Journal List ; Current Contents - Agriculture, Biology and Environmental Sciences ; Current Contents - Life Sciences ; Ebsco Academic Search ; Essential Science Indicators ; IF >= 10 ; JCR ; National-Konsortium ; SCOPUS ; Science Citation Index Expanded ; Web of Science Core Collection ; Zoological Record

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