Modulation of cognitive functions supporting human declarative memory is one of the grand challenges of neuroscience and of great importance for various neuropsychiatric, neurodegenerative, and neurodevelopmental diseases. Despite recent advancements in memory enhancement, the optimal approaches and parameters are yet to be determined. With the advent of innovative neurotechnologies, it has become possible to study the effects of electrical stimulation on memory performance and the underlying neural activities.
In the article written by M. Kucewicz et al., they summarize the effects of various invasive stimulation approaches for modulating memory functions. The initial challenges of memory enhancement are outlined, and electrophysiological biomarkers are discussed as more objective measures of stimulation effects than behavioral outcomes. The stimulation approaches are classified into continuous and phasic modulation with open or closed loop for responsive stimulation based on the recorded neural activities. Although the potential advantage of closed-loop responsive stimulation is inconclusive, ongoing longitudinal studies and clinical trials may shed light on both the mechanisms and optimal strategies for improving declarative memory.
Adaptive stimulation based on biomarker analysis over extended periods of time is proposed as a future direction for obtaining lasting effects on memory functions. Chronic tracking and modulation of neural activities through adaptive stimulation opens up new avenues to continually monitor and treat memory and cognitive deficits in various brain disorders. Brain co-processors with machine-learning tools and wireless bi-directional connectivity can provide real-time automated analysis of large data volumes and adaptively tune electrical stimulation based on electrophysiological biomarkers of behavioral states.
Next-generation implantable devices for high-density recording and stimulation of electrophysiological activities, and technologies for distributed brain-computer interfaces are presented as selected future perspectives for modulating human memory and associated mental processes. The integration of implanted devices with smartphones and cloud computing will enable seamless and efficient analysis of large data volumes.
In conclusion, the future of modulating human memory is promising with the development of innovative neurotechnologies. Further research and clinical trials are necessary to determine the optimal approaches and parameters for memory enhancement and to provide effective treatments for various brain disorders.
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