Barbara Berger: Functional connectivity patterns enabling working memory processes

Abstract
Working memory (WM) is one of the three key components of executive functions (EF) along with inhibition and cognitive flexibility. EF are at the core of our everyday functioning enabling us to focus our attention, inhibit responses and allow updating of rules we follow. While these components are functionally distinct, they are also intertwined with often shared, partially overlapping cortical mechanisms and regions. Item maintenance in WM, for instance, also requires attention allocation, inhibition of unwanted sensory input and motor output as well as the ability to switch one’s focus. Hence it is not surprising that such complex set of operations are supported by a large distributed network of cortical areas. Our brain supports this chaotic mix of tasks by optimally aligning activation in various different regions apparently seamlessly. Unless something goes wrong.
The impairment of EF processes in general and WM in particular can have devastating effects on people. Depending on the severity, it can make it impossible for patients to function autonomously.
In this talk I will present findings from my research using non-invasive electrophysiology (EEG/MEG) combined with neurostimulation (TMS) identifying long-range network dynamics that can reliably predict behavioural outcome of higher cognitive operations that are part of the family of EF, like the allocation of cognitive resources for successful WM performance. I will present network disruptions manifested in disorders like for instance Schizophrenia that could underly WM impairment and a brief outlook why and how understanding basic mechanisms can directly translate to therapeutic interventions.
About the speaker
Barbara Berger, Postdoc, AIAS-COFUND Fellow, Aarhus University
IMC Tuesday Seminar held May 2nd, 2023.
Note: Talk is trimmed to ensure anonymity of informants.