Adaptive proximity to criticality underlies amplification of ultra-slow fluctuations during free recall.

ABSTRACT: Ultra-slow fluctuations are a hallmark of spontaneous cortical activity. We examine the hypothesis that these dynamics arise from recurrent neuronal networks operating near a phase-transition point, a state marked by "critical slowing down". In such networks, a subtle shift toward criticality should selectively amplify slow fluctuations, providing a lever that can switch the cortex from quiet rest into self-generated behavior. Using a simple random recurrent network, we reproduce this amplification effect. The resulting spectra closely match intracranial electroencephalography from human visual cortex recorded during rest and during category-specific visual free recall. In particular, the model captures the experimentally observed enhancement of slow fluctuations during recall. These simul

SUBMITTER: Yellin D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12578353 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature