The impact of auditory induced synchronization on memory processing

• Applicant: Privatdozent Dr. Jürgen Fell
• Subject Area: Human Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience
• Term: from 2012 to 2017
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 220533883

Previous research indicates that EEG phase synchronization is an important mechanism supporting memory processes. This project aims at investigating whether auditory stimulation increases phase synchronization between mediotemporal and neocortical areas and whether this, in turn, enhances memory performance. For this purpose, monaural and binaural auditory beats with beat frequencies in the range of the dominant EEG rhythms will be applied to presurgical epilepsy patients while recording EEG from intracranial electrodes. In a first step, we will evaluate whether an EEG amplitude increase at the beat frequencies, as well as phase synchronization between different neocortical and mediotemporal areas can be achieved by auditory stimulation and is associated with enhanced memory functions. In a second step, it will be investigated whether formation of dream memories during sleep can be enhanced in epilepsy patients by continuous stimulation with auditory beats. Finally, it will be evaluated whether performance in working and long-term memory tasks can be enhanced in healthy subjects by event-related auditory beat stimulation.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants