Named sounds that completely change the way the brain works

An international team of researchers has discovered that even the simplest rhythm can restructure brain function, changing the interaction between its networks. Scientists have developed a new analytical tool FREQ-NESS, allowing to "see" the activity of brain networks at different frequencies simultaneously. The work is published in the journal Advanced Science.

The experiment was conducted with 29 volunteers whose brain activity was recorded using magnetoencephalography. Participants either watched a silent film or watched the same film but with steady sound tones - approximately two beats per second.

It was found that rhythmic stimulation causes three key changes. In the auditory cortex, networks precisely tuned to the frequency of the stimulus were formed. Familiar networks, such as the alpha rhythm, changed frequency and localization - from the occipital region it shifted to the sensorimotor area, as if "preparing" the brain for action. Coordination between slow and fast rhythms was also enhanced: oscillations at 2.4 Hz modulated activity in the gamma range (above 60 Hz) in areas associated with attention and memory.

Thus, even when passively listening to simple sounds, the brain doesn't just "turn on" the auditory zone, but restructures the entire network of interactions.

"Rhythm changes the brain in three dimensions at once: it adjusts sensory networks, adapts the frequency and distribution of internal oscillations, and enhances communication between slow and fast rhythms," explained study author Mattia Rosso from Aarhus University.

According to the researchers, the FREQ-NESS methodology opens new possibilities for studying speech perception, music and consciousness, and can also be applied to research on aging and neuroplasticity.