Steady-state BOLD Response to Higher-order Cognition Modulates Low-Frequency Neural Oscillations

J Cogn Neurosci. 2015 Dec;27(12):2406-15. doi: 10.1162/jocn_a_00864. Epub 2015 Aug 18.

Abstract

Steady-state responses (SSRs) reflect the synchronous neural oscillations evoked by noninvasive and consistently repeated stimuli at the fundamental or harmonic frequencies. The steady-state evoked potentials (SSEPs; the representative form of the SSRs) have been widely used in the cognitive and clinical neurosciences and brain-computer interface research. However, the steady-state evoked potentials have limitations in examining high-frequency neural oscillations and basic cognition. In addition, synchronous neural oscillations in the low frequency range (<1 Hz) and in higher-order cognition have received a little attention. Therefore, we examined the SSRs in the low frequency range using a new index, the steady-state BOLD responses (SSBRs) evoked by semantic stimuli. Our results revealed that the significant SSBRs were induced at the fundamental frequency of stimuli and the first harmonic in task-related regions, suggesting the enhanced variability of neural oscillations entrained by exogenous stimuli. The SSBRs were independent of neurovascular coupling and characterized by sensorimotor bias, an indication of regional-dependent neuroplasticity. Furthermore, the amplitude of SSBRs may predict behavioral performance and show the psychophysiological relevance. Our findings provide valuable insights into the understanding of the SSRs evoked by higher-order cognition and how the SSRs modulate low-frequency neural oscillations.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Brain / physiology*
  • Brain Mapping
  • Brain Waves / physiology*
  • Cerebrovascular Circulation / physiology*
  • Cognition / physiology
  • Comprehension / physiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Oxygen / blood*
  • Pattern Recognition, Visual / physiology*
  • Periodicity
  • Reaction Time
  • Reading
  • Semantics*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Oxygen