%0 Journal Article
%A Wagner, I. C.
%A Konrad, B. N.
%A Schuster, P.
%A Weisig, S.
%A Repantis, D.
%A Ohla, K.
%A Kühn, S.
%A Fernández, G.
%A Steiger, A.
%A Lamm, C.
%A Czisch, M.
%A Dresler, M.
%T Durable memories and efficient neural coding through mnemonic training using the method of loci
%J Science advances
%V 7
%N 10
%@ 2375-2548
%C Washington, DC [u.a.]
%I Assoc.
%M FZJ-2021-01909
%P eabc7606 -
%D 2021
%X Mnemonic techniques, such as the method of loci, can powerfully boost memory. We compared memory athletes ranked among the world’s top 50 in memory sports to mnemonics-naïve controls. In a second study, participants completed a 6-week memory training, working memory training, or no intervention. Behaviorally, memory training enhanced durable, longer-lasting memories. Functional magnetic resonance imaging during encoding and recognition revealed task-based activation decreases in lateral prefrontal, as well as in parahippocampal and retrosplenial cortices in both memory athletes and participants after memory training, partly associated with better performance after 4 months. This was complemented by hippocampal-neocortical coupling during consolidation, which was stronger the more durable memories participants formed. Our findings advance knowledge on how mnemonic training boosts durable memory formation through decreased task-based activation and increased consolidation thereafter. This is in line with conceptual accounts of neural efficiency and highlights a complex interplay of neural processes critical for extraordinary memory.
%F PUB:(DE-HGF)16
%9 Journal Article
%$ 33658191
%U <Go to ISI:>//WOS:000625411900002
%R 10.1126/sciadv.abc7606
%U https://juser.fz-juelich.de/record/892058