The Tactile Window to Consciousness is Characterized by Frequency-Specific Integration and Segregation of the Primary Somatosensory Cortex.

摘要: We recently proposed that besides levels of local cortical excitability, also distinct pre-stimulus network states (windows to consciousness) determine whether a near-threshold stimulus will be consciously perceived. In the present magnetoencephalography study, we scrutinised these with focus on primary somatosensory cortex. For this purpose participants performed simple tactile detection task. Confirming previous studies, found reduced alpha and beta power in region contralateral stimulation prior correct as compared undetected stimuli, stronger event-related responses following successful detection. As expected, using graph theoretical measures, observed modulated level integration. Specifically, right cortex showed an increased integration theta band, additionally, decreased band. Overall, results underline importance for enabling conscious perception. Moreover, they indicate reduction irrelevant functional connections contributes window consciousness by tuning pathways information flow.