Objective Current theories of declarative memory suggest that it is supported by two complementary memory systems: the medial temporal lobe (MTL) which specializes in rapid acquisition of novel associations and the neocortex, which slowly learns through environmental regularities. Gilboa et al. recently reported an extraordinary phenomenon of rapid acquisition of novel arbitrary associations by adults with severe anterograde amnesia due to extensive MTL lesions. These data challenge the accepted view of dual declarative memory systems and offer a radically different mechanism for directly acquiring semantics without enlisting the hippocampus: the Fast Mapping. Fast Mapping refers to a process that supports vocabulary acquisition among children who do not have a mature hippocampus. They actively infer the meaning of novel words by generating hypotheses based on contextual cues or on the way the words are used in a sentence.By using a multidisciplinary approach, this project aims at highlighting the neural substrates and the cognitive mechanisms underlying this type of learning.First, we will explore the neural basis of FM by a clinical approach. We will contrast the performance of patients whose pathology primarily involves the Anterior Temporal Lobe (Semantic Dementia) with that of patients with more pronounced Medial Temporal Lobe pathology (Alzheimer’s disease).In a second experiment we will use Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in order to highlight the brain regions that are involved in the FM learning.Experiments 3 and 4 aim at investigating the neurocognitive mechanisms underlying FM. Using a Bayesian framework, we will try to demonstrate how knowledge and inference are used in combination with repeated exposures to guide people in learning new words. We will also use MEG to highlight the patterns’ changes of neocortical activity when participant learn through FM.Finally, we will develop new tools for memory rehabilitation based on the FM acquisition. Fields of science natural sciencesbiological sciencesneurobiologycognitive neurosciencemedical and health sciencesbasic medicinepathology Programme(s) FP7-PEOPLE - Specific programme "People" implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013) Topic(s) FP7-PEOPLE-2011-IOF - Marie Curie Action: "International Outgoing Fellowships for Career Development" Call for proposal FP7-PEOPLE-2011-IOF See other projects for this call Funding Scheme MC-IOF - International Outgoing Fellowships (IOF) Coordinator INSTITUT NATIONAL DE LA SANTE ET DE LA RECHERCHE MEDICALE EU contribution € 244 670,40 Address Rue de tolbiac 101 75654 Paris France See on map Region Ile-de-France Ile-de-France Paris Activity type Research Organisations Administrative Contact Isabelle Verdier (Ms.) Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window Total cost No data