According to the Cleveland Clinic, the cerebral cortex “plays a key role in memory, thinking, learning, reasoning, problem-solving, emotions, consciousness, and functions related to your senses.” But have you ever wondered what exactly constitutes this complex structure? Researchers at MIT have taken a significant step toward answering that question by creating a comprehensive map of the cerebral cortex using fMRI technology.

The study aimed to provide a deeper understanding of the various regions of the cerebral cortex by observing brain activity while participants engaged in natural tasks, such as watching movies. Data was collected using a high-resolution Tesla MRI scanner, which recorded brain activity in 176 individuals as they viewed one hour of movie clips featuring diverse scenes. A machine-learning algorithm analyzed the data, identifying 24 distinct networks with unique patterns and functions, such as those associated with the visual cortex, auditory cortex, and other brain regions.

Notably, the researchers discovered networks that had not been identified before, including one in the prefrontal cortex that showed a strong response to visual scenes. Three of the identified networks were related to “executive control” and were particularly active during transitions between different movie clips. When networks tied to specific features—such as visual or auditory processing—were highly active, the executive control networks were largely inactive, and vice versa. This indicated a “push-pull relationship,” with executive control networks engaging during moments of ambiguity, complexity, or when active decision-making was required.

This innovative study has highlighted new ways of mapping brain activity, particularly during natural tasks, and has offered fresh insights compared to traditional neuroimaging methods. By revealing how different networks within the cerebral cortex interact, this research sets the stage for further exploration of the specific functions of these networks. The researchers hope their findings will serve as a foundation for future studies, paving the way for a deeper understanding of the brain’s intricate workings.