Functions of Neuronal Networks in the Hippocampus and Neocortex in Memory

The experimental evidence and theoretical approaches to the function of the hippocampus and of backprojections in the neocortex are presented and it is suggested that this approach will be useful in the future in linking anatomical evidence on structure to physiological evidence on modifiability.

Abstract

This chapter discusses the functions of neuronal networks in the hippocampus and neocortex in memory. It also presents the experimental evidence and theoretical approaches to the function of the hippocampus and of backprojections in the neocortex. The theories are at the level of neuronal networks and are based on evidence on the fine architecture of the networks, on the rules of synaptic modifiability incorporated, and on the systems-level connections. It is suggested that this approach will be useful in the future in linking anatomical evidence on structure to physiological evidence on modifiability. The approach will also be useful in understanding the global properties of the networks and, thus, understanding the role of the networks in brain function and behavior.