functional
architecture
How do we preferentially remember what we want to remember? How does your brain selectively encode the memories that are more valuable? Our laboratory uses novel behavioral paradigms in conjunction with functional neuroimaging to understand the neural mechanisms underlying motivated memory.
For example, by studying the interactions between “reward” and “memory” systems, especially communication between the midbrain, striatum, and hippocampus, we can better understand the contributions of specialized brain systems for learning to the construction of neural representations of the “reward” landscape .
We are currently addressing this fundamental phenomenon in a variety of domains including the formation of episodic memories, spatial representations, and generalization in the context of reward.
Prefrontal-midbrain interactions during motivated memory
What neural mechanisms initiate and maintain reward-motivated learning? Previous research from our laboratory has shown that functional activations in the ventral tegmental area (a dopaminergic midbrain structure) and other sub-cortical structures both precede and predict reward motivated memory formation. Animal work as well as computational models suggest that executive functions mediated by the prefrontal cortex may initiate these subcortical cascades. Using statistical methods of effective connectivity, we are currently addressing the dynamic role of the prefrontal cortex in promoting reward-motivated learning.
Contrasting reward- and fear-based learning
Are different neural mechanisms recruited when we are motivated to learn with reward or punishment? Our lab is interested in using the neural signatures that are common and distinct when learning is guided by positive or negative reinforcements to elucidate the underlying systems. We are specifically interested in how neural mechanisms for processing aversive stimuli interact with the brain’s motivational systems in learning. Furthermore, we are interested in determining how these two learning contexts behaviorally affect the structure, richness, and robustness of memories.
If you're interested in learning more, please contact Vishnu Murty (vishnu.murty_at_duke.edu).
How do we preferentially remember what we want to remember? How does your brain selectively encode the memories that are more valuable? Our laboratory uses novel behavioral paradigms in conjunction with functional neuroimaging to understand the neural mechanisms underlying motivated memory.
For example, by studying the interactions between “reward” and “memory” systems, especially communication between the midbrain, striatum, and hippocampus, we can better understand the contributions of specialized brain systems for learning to the construction of neural representations of the “reward” landscape .
We are currently addressing this fundamental phenomenon in a variety of domains including the formation of episodic memories, spatial representations, and generalization in the context of reward.
Prefrontal-midbrain interactions during motivated memory
What neural mechanisms initiate and maintain reward-motivated learning? Previous research from our laboratory has shown that functional activations in the ventral tegmental area (a dopaminergic midbrain structure) and other sub-cortical structures both precede and predict reward motivated memory formation. Animal work as well as computational models suggest that executive functions mediated by the prefrontal cortex may initiate these subcortical cascades. Using statistical methods of effective connectivity, we are currently addressing the dynamic role of the prefrontal cortex in promoting reward-motivated learning.
Contrasting reward- and fear-based learning
Are different neural mechanisms recruited when we are motivated to learn with reward or punishment? Our lab is interested in using the neural signatures that are common and distinct when learning is guided by positive or negative reinforcements to elucidate the underlying systems. We are specifically interested in how neural mechanisms for processing aversive stimuli interact with the brain’s motivational systems in learning. Furthermore, we are interested in determining how these two learning contexts behaviorally affect the structure, richness, and robustness of memories.
If you're interested in learning more, please contact Vishnu Murty (vishnu.murty_at_duke.edu).