Autobiographical memory: What have we learned from brain imaging studies

Abstract

Autobiographical memory retrieval (AMR) engages a set of processes including episodic and semantic memory, visual imagery, self-reflection, emotion, and executive functions. Neuroimaging studies have shown that a large left lateral and medial neural network is associated with AMR: hippocampus and parahippocampal regions, temporo-parietal junction, retrospenial cortex, medial and lateral prefrontal cortex. Among this neural network two regions have been the main focus of interest: the hippocampus and the medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC).

Classical models suggest that the hippocampus contributes temporary to the consolidation of memory. Long-term remote memories could be accessed directly via the neocortex and independently of the hippocampus. Neuroimaging findings support an alternative model and suggest that medial temporal structure binds neocortical representation into a memory trace. The activation of hippocampal region may be independent of age of acquisition of the event but may depend on the vividness, amount of detail and emotionality of the event recalled.

Autobiographical memory and the self are closely linked. Numerous imaging studies have implicated the MPFC in self-referential processing during AMR. The MPFC could be related to the retrieval of personal semantic knowledge as well as episodic personal knowledge. The MPFC is also involved in emotion regulation, social cognition and theory of mind. Taken together these findings suggest that within the AMR network, MPFC and hippocampus are good brain targets for understanding the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.