Mechanisms underlying working memory for novel information.

Michael E Hasselmo; Chantal E Stern

doi:10.1016/j.tics.2006.09.005

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Mechanisms underlying working memory for novel information.

Michael E Hasselmo·Chantal E Stern

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Abstract

In this Opinion article we describe a theory that the brain mechanisms underlying working memory for novel information include a buffer in parahippocampal cortices. Computational modeling indicates that mechanisms for maintaining novel information in working memory could differ from mechanisms for maintaining familiar information. Electrophysiological data suggest that the buffer for novel information depends on acetylcholine. Acetylcholine activates single-cell mechanisms that underlie persistent spiking of neurons in the absence of synaptic transmission, allowing maintenance of information without prior synaptic modification. fMRI studies and lesion studies suggest that parahippocampal regions mediate working memory for novel stimuli, and the effects of cholinergic blockade impair this function. These intrinsic mechanisms in parahippocampal cortices provide an important alternative to theories of working memory based on recurrent synaptic excitation.

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Acetylcholine Animals Attention Cerebral Cortex Entorhinal Cortex Humans Long-Term Potentiation Magnetic Resonance Imaging Memory, Short-Term Neurons Parahippocampal Gyrus Retention, Psychology Synaptic Transmission Journal Article Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.Review

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Michael E Hasselmo, Chantal E Stern. 2006-10-02. Mechanisms underlying working memory for novel information.. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2006.09.005

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