A whole-brain analysis of functional connectivity and immediate early gene expression reveals functional network shifts after operant learning

Kazumi Kasahara, Keigo Hikishima, Mariko Nakata, Tomokazu Tsurugizawa, Noriyuki Higo, Kenji Doya

Abstract: Highlights•A network analysis combined fMRI and immunohistochemistry was performed on operant learning.•Functional connectivity in limbic areas increased at early stage of training.•Functional connectivity in sensorimotor cortex increased at late stage of training.•These connectivity changes in fMRI were validated using EGR1 immunohistochemistry.