Neurocognitive Architecture of Working Memory

• Published in: Neuron (Cambridge, Mass.) Mass.), 2015-10, Vol.88 (1), p.33-46
• Main Authors: Eriksson, Johan, Vogel, Edward K., Lansner, Anders, Bergström, Fredrik, Nyberg, Lars
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Behavior; Brain - physiology; Brain research; Frontal Lobe - physiology; Humans; Memory; Memory, Long-Term - physiology; Memory, Short-Term - physiology; Neuronal Plasticity - physiology; Parietal Lobe - physiology; Retention; Short term; Visual task performance
• ISSN: 0896-6273; 1097-4199; 1097-4199
• DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2015.09.020

A crucial role for working memory in temporary information processing and guidance of complex behavior has been recognized for many decades. There is emerging consensus that working-memory maintenance results from the interactions among long-term memory representations and basic processes, including attention, that are instantiated as reentrant loops between frontal and posterior cortical areas, as well as sub-cortical structures. The nature of such interactions can account for capacity limitations, lifespan changes, and restricted transfer after working-memory training. Recent data and models indicate that working memory may also be based on synaptic plasticity and that working memory can operate on non-consciously perceived information. Working memory emerges from dynamic interactions among several component processes, by recurrent loops and synaptic modulation in prefrontal and cortical/sub-cortical networks. These interactions vary according to task demands and relevant long-term memory representations and account for variation in working-memory functioning.