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Translating a Novel Schema Memory Paradigm to Advance Understanding of Memory Processes

Cristina Varela Chacon, First-year PhD,

Edge Hill University

BACKGROUND:

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Memories are known to be stronger when they are connected to existing knowledge or
schemas. Extensive research on schema formation in animal models has provided valuable
insights into the neurobiology underlying memory consolidation. The schema paradigm in
rodents has allowed the exploration of the neurobiology behind schema formation and its
connection to memory consolidation. However, there remains a significant gap in our
understanding due to the lack of an animal paradigm translated for human studies.

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My current research aims to bridge this gap by translating a novel schema memory paradigm from animals to humans. By doing so, we seek to advance our understanding of memory processes in both species and shed light on the neurobiological mechanisms underlying the assimilation of new information into pre-existing schemas.

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In addition, spatial navigation has been investigated as a cognitive fingerprint to identify pre-clinical Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). The second objective of the project is to explore the
potential of this schema paradigm as a behavioural marker. This investigation utilizes animal models of schema formation and emphasizes the significant influence of prior knowledge in enhancing memory strength.

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The present research aims to fulfil the requirement for a translatable behavioural model that can effectively detect changes related to AD in both animal and human participants. We have developed a maze-like computer-based paradigm that involves a paired-associate object-location task with the purpose of measuring spatial navigation abilities in cognitively healthy elderly participants.

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METHODOLOGY:

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For this research we are using a software called MazeSuit that allow us to create a maze-like virtual environment in which participants will navigate through with the objective to find
certain items and remember their locations.

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RESULTS:

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This research is a translational model of a breakthrough research on memory schemas on
rodents pioneered by Dorothy Tse and colleagues (2007), based on this study, we predict that the participants will be able to remember the location of the items in the maze when
navigating maps that are consistent, this way creating a mental schema of the map and item locations.

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FUTURE WORK: 

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Next steps will involve the use of Electroencephalography techniques to look at
the participant’s brain signals whilst creating these mental schemas.
I am also interested in other factors that affect the way we form memories, such as curiosity
and novelty. Future projects involve exploring how curiosity affects cognitive functioning.

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FUNDED BY:

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Edge Hill University

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CONTACT: 

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  • LinkedIn
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