default mode network
Also written as: DMN — default mode network
Brain network active during rest and introspective tasks, including medial prefrontal and posterior cingulate regions.
Full Definition
The default mode network (DMN) is a large-scale brain network that shows high metabolic activity during rest and decreased activity during focused external tasks. Key regions include the medial prefrontal cortex, posterior cingulate cortex, precuneus, and angular gyrus. The DMN is thought to support self-referential thinking, autobiographical memory retrieval, and theory of mind processes. Abnormal DMN activity and connectivity have been observed in various neurological and psychiatric conditions including Alzheimer's disease, depression, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorders.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as DMN; distinguish from other resting-state networks like the salience network.
In Context
- "fMRI analysis revealed hyperconnectivity within the default mode network in patients with depression." — Neuroimaging research
- "The default mode network showed decreased deactivation during the working memory task." — Cognitive neuroscience study