Hierarchical functional system development supports executive function

In this perspective, we describe how developmental improvements in youth execu-tive function (EF) are supported by hierarchically organized maturational changes in functional brain systems. We first highlight evidence that functional brain systems are embedded within a hierarchical sensorimotor-association axis of cortical orga-nization. We then review data showing that functional system developmental profiles vary along this axis: systems near the associative end become more func-tionally segregated, while those in the middle become more integrative. Develop-mental changes that strengthen the hierarchical organization of the cortex may support EF by facilitating top-down information flow and balancing within-and between-system communication. We propose a central role for attention and frontoparietal control systems in the maturation of healthy EF and suggest that reduced functional system differentiation across the sensorimotor-association axis contributes to transdiagnostic EF deficits.

Automated summary

In this article, we explain the developmental improvements in youth executive function (EF) that are supported by hierarchical changes in functional brain systems. The study focuses on the hierarchical sensorimotor-association axis of cortical organization and demonstrates that functional system developmental profiles vary along this axis. The article proposes that attention and frontoparietal control systems play a central role in the maturation of healthy EF, and reduced functional system differentiation across the sensorimotor-association axis contributes to transdiagnostic EF deficits.