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HEIndividual fellowship2022–2024

NeuraCOLM · The Neural Correlates of Object Location Memory

Horizon Europe — Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

Duration
2022-08-01 → 2024-11-30
EU contribution
€203,464
Participants
2
Scheme
HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF

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Results in brief

The Neural Correlates of Object Location Memory

Understanding how we remember the location of objects is fundamental to everyday life. While this ability, known as object location memory (OLM), is crucial, the underlying mechanisms, particularly the influence of object knowledge, remain largely unknown. This project aimed to expand our knowledge of OLM by investigating both individual differences in spatial cognition and the neural correlates involved, specifically considering the role of contextual factors such as knowledge about objects (e.g., ownership), and environmental cues. This research addresses internal spatial representations, reflecting the flexible and individualised nature of our cognitive processes. We conducted 8 experiments, acquiring data from 269 participants.

Data: CORDIS, © European Union

Project objective

Remembering where things are, for example, where you parked your car, is essential in everyday life. Without spatial memory, we would continuously be engaged in looking for our car, keys, phone, or glasses. Despite its obvious importance, a lot is still unknown about object location memory (OLM). This proposal aims to uncover mechanisms underlying OLM, specifically taking into consideration the influence of object knowledge on OLM (e.g., if an object is owned or familiar). These factors will be explored by examining individual differences (sex differences and ageing) in WP1, and testing the neural correlates of OLM in WP2.With this aim, the following specific objectives have been established:-Test individual differences in OLM (sex differences and ageing), conducting online studies to understand how o reported sex differences relate to the cognitive mechanisms involved in OLM o ageing affects the cognitive mechanisms involved in OLM-Test how object knowledge (e.g., familiarity and ownership) affects OLM, in fMRI studies we will concurrently acquire neural activation and memory data, to: oExplore the brain areas involved in OLM oTest whether object knowledge effects on OLM are reflected in neural activity of brain areas responsible for the representation of peri-personal (reachable) and extra-personal (out of reach) space. oTest whether neural activation at encoding is predictive of spatial memory error. oTest whether these effects occur upon memory retrieval, or already at the stage of encoding, i.e., during object perception.-Build a Dynamic Causal Model of typical (healthy) OLM, which can be used as a baseline for studies on atypical OLM (e.g., dementia)The results obtained from this multidisciplinary project will be relevant in the fields of gerontology/dementia research, cognitive psychology/ cognitive science, cognitive neuroscience, and neuro-psychology, and will inspire future applications for populations with atypical OLM.

Original text from CORDIS.

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Data: CORDIS, © European Union