Principles and open questions in functional brain network reconstruction

Graph theory is now becoming a standard tool in system-level neuroscience. However, endowing observed brain anatomy and dynamics with a complex network representation involves often covert theoretical assumptions and methodological choices which affect the way networks are reconstructed from experimental data, and ultimately the resulting network properties and their interpretation. Here, we review some fundamental conceptual underpinnings and technical issues associated with brain network reconstruction, and discuss how their mutual influence concurs in clarifying the organization of brain function.

Automated summary

Graph theory is becoming a standard tool in system-level neuroscience, but the theoretical assumptions and methodological choices involved in representing brain anatomy and dynamics as complex networks can impact the reconstruction of networks from experimental data. By reviewing fundamental concepts and technical issues related to brain network reconstruction, we discuss how their mutual influence helps clarify the organization of brain function.