Creative thinking represents a major evolutionary mechanism, which greatly contributed to the rapid advancement of the human species. The ability to produce novel and useful ideas, or original thinking, is thought to correlate with intrinsic synchronization of large-scale associative cortical networks, such as the default mode (DMN) and the fronto-parietal control (FPC).

 

Recent studies suggest that these networks differentially modulate the level of creative thinking. In this study we aim to use a novel, network-based stimulation approach, in order to intra-operatively map creative thinking. We will utilize preoperative resting-state fMRI (rsfMRI) in order to identify the DMN and FPC in the individual patient, and establish a baseline creativity score using a modified version of the alternate uses task (AUT). Intra-operatively, we will stimulate specific areas of the DMN and FPC while patients perform the AUT. Based on previous findings, we hypothesize that disruption of the DMN will lead to decreased originality and vice versa with the FPC. This proposed project, which is supported by preliminary data, would be the first to intra-operatively map cortical associative networks underlying creativity, thus promoting the potential to preserve this unique ability in patients.

 

Furthermore, using multimodal complementary measures may provide a characterization of modulation within and between large-scale cortical networks, as well as their relation to creative thinking. Based on preoperative mapping, this would allow for future preservation of creativity in patients who cannot undergo awake surgeries. Preliminary results demonstrate the ability to intraoperatively interfere with original thinking via direct cortical stimulation, as well as the differences in network organization and integration between patients who require individual network characterization in order to preserve functionality following surgery.