Project description
Understanding how we create our knowledge networks
Memories initially reside as neural representations in the hippocampus, where they interact weakly with neocortical modules. Through a process called consolidation, newly formed memories are reactivated, thereby strengthening the neocortical memory trace. Existing knowledge is then encoded in a cortical network of neurons, facilitating efficient consolidation of new information. In this context, the ERC-funded CreateKnow project seeks to test a novel theory on experience-dependent learning. This theory posits that the size and complexity of the knowledge network influence where memories are encoded and the speed of their consolidation. To investigate this, the project will apply the HexMaze behavioural paradigm in mice, using immediate early gene expression techniques, electrophysiology in rats, and targeted memory reactivation and MRI in humans.
Objective
In this project I want to unravel how we build-up and update our knowledge networks depending on the amount of previous experience we have by testing my new theory on experience dependent learning. Current theory postulates memories to be stored initially as sets of neural representations spanning the hippocampus and weakly interacting neocortical modules. The spontaneous reactivation of new memories during a consolidation phase, would lead to strengthening of the neocortical memory trace. Consequently, pre-existing knowledge is proposed to be coded in the brain as a cortical network of neurons that allows for more efficient consolidation of new information. I recently developed a new theory, proposing that the existence of previous knowledge and therefore the extent of the cortical memory network, is a gradient of experience instead of being either present or not. The size and complexity of the knowledge network would influence where in the brain memories are encoded and how fast they are consolidated. I propose combining my innovative behavioural paradigm the HexMaze - that enables investigatory access to various levels of experience, with different techniques in three species to test this theory. In mice, with immediate early gene expression techniques to visualize and manipulate the brain-wide memory network with the resolution of individual neurons. In rats, with electrophysiology to measure and manipulate memory reactivations during sleep as the mechanisms to enable consolidation. In humans, with targeted memory reactivation and magnetic resonance imaging to follow the evolution of learning over one year. The combination of species with their respective methods enables to observe effects as well as test for causality. The unique combination of meaningful behaviour with appropriate, precise techniques would provide ground-breaking insight into how we create and update our knowledge networks and change the way we view and test memory.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
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Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2023-COG
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
6525 XZ Nijmegen
Netherlands
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