This Research Topic is the second volume in the series: Exploring the Neural Mechanisms of Sensory-Cognitive Associations: Bridging Sensory Perception and Higher Cognitive Functions. The previous volume can be viewed here: Volume I

Understanding the neural mechanisms that underpin higher cognitive functions is a complex and crucial area of neuroscience. These higher cognitive functions include sophisticated mental processes such as multisensory integration, working memory, and decision-making, all of which rely on the intricate interplay of neural networks across various brain regions.

At the core of these higher cognitive functions is sensory perception-the brain’s ability to perceive, interpret, and integrate sensory information to guide behavior and decision-making. Sensory perception is widely considered the foundation of higher cognitive functions that transform the basic sensory perception information into sophisticated cognitive functions. Without sensory processing, higher cognitive function would be severely compromised.

Recent advancements in neuroimaging techniques, including functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), electroencephalography (EEG), magnetoencephalography (MEG), and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), have provided unprecedented insights into these mechanisms. These tools allow researchers to observe brain activity in real-time, map structural connectivity between brain regions, and investigate the dynamic interactions of neural networks during cognitive tasks. This evolving research not only deepens our understanding of cognition but also holds promise for developing interventions to address cognitive impairments resulting from neurological disorders or brain injuries.

Exploring the neural mechanisms underlying sensory perception and higher cognitive functions aims to advance our understanding of the principles that govern human thought and behavior. By delving deeper into these neural foundations, researchers can elucidate how complex mental processes—such as multisensory integration, working memory, attention, and decision-making—are realized in the brain. This research has far-reaching implications, with potential to revolutionize fields such as artificial intelligence through biologically inspired models and clinical neuroscience by informing novel therapeutic strategies.

This research topic invites submissions on, but not limited to, the following areas:

1. Neural Mechanisms of Sensory Integration and Perception
- The transition from primary sensory processing to higher-order cognitive representations.
- Neural substrates of multisensory integration and cross-modal plasticity.
- The role of feedback loops and top-down processing in shaping sensory perception.

2. Advanced Neuroimaging and Methodological Innovations
- Applications of multimodal imaging (e.g., combining fMRI-EEG or fNIRS-MEG) to capture high-resolution brain activity.
- Mapping functional and structural connectivity within the "connectome" during cognitive tasks.
- Novel computational approaches for analyzing real-time neural data and network oscillations.

Researchers are encouraged to submit original research papers, reviews, case studies, and theoretical perspectives that contribute to advancing knowledge in these areas. Submissions should adhere to scientific rigor, clarity, and relevance to the special topic's themes. Accepted manuscripts will undergo peer review and may be published in the journal's research topic.

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Exploring the Neural Mechanisms of Sensory-Cognitive Associations: Bridging Sensory Perception and Higher Cognitive Functions, Volume II