Hierarchical fluctuation shapes a dynamic flow linked to states of consciousness

Abstract Consciousness arises from the spatiotemporal neural dynamics, however, its relationship with neural flexibility and regional specialization remains elusive. We identified a consciousness-related signature marked by shifting spontaneous fluctuations along a unimodal-transmodal cortical axis. This simple signature is sensitive to altered states of consciousness in single individuals, exhibiting abnormal elevation under psychedelics and in psychosis. The hierarchical dynamic reflects brain state changes in global integration and connectome diversity under task-free conditions. Quasi-periodic pattern detection revealed that hierarchical heterogeneity as spatiotemporally propagating waves linking to arousal. A similar pattern can be observed in macaque electrocorticography. Furthermore, the spatial distribution of principal cortical gradient preferentially recapitulated the genetic transcription levels of the histaminergic system and that of the functional connectome mapping of the tuberomammillary nucleus, which promotes wakefulness. Combining behavioral, neuroimaging, electrophysiological, and transcriptomic evidence, we propose that global consciousness is supported by efficient hierarchical processing constrained along a low-dimensional macroscale gradient.