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Integrating new findings and examining clinical applications of pattern separation

Abstract

Pattern separation, the ability to independently represent and store similar experiences, is a crucial facet of episodic memory. Growing evidence suggests that the hippocampus possesses unique circuitry that is computationally capable of resolving mnemonic interference by using pattern separation. In this Review, we discuss recent advances in the understanding of this process and evaluate the caveats and limitations of linking across animal and human studies. We summarize clinical and translational studies using methods that are sensitive to pattern separation impairments, an approach that stems from the fact that the hippocampus is a major site of disruption in many brain disorders. We critically evaluate the assumptions that guide fundamental and translational studies in this area. Finally, we suggest guidelines for future research and offer ways to overcome potential interpretational challenges to increase the utility of pattern separation as a construct that can further understanding of both memory processes and brain disease.

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Fig. 1: Circuitry and computational properties of the hippocampus.
Fig. 2: Exponential increase in articles on pattern separation.
Fig. 3: Medial temporal lobe circuitry alterations in disease.
Fig. 4: Behavioral and neural predictions of discrimination performance and pattern separation.

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Acknowledgements

We thank M. Tsai, E. Murray and J. Noche for their helpful feedback on earlier versions of this manuscript. We also acknowledge our sources of support. S.L.L. is supported by NIA F32 AG054116. M.A.Y. is supported by NIA R01 AG053555, P50 AG16573 (Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center), NIMH R01 MH102392 and P50 MH096889 (Conte Center at UC Irvine).

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Leal, S.L., Yassa, M.A. Integrating new findings and examining clinical applications of pattern separation. Nat Neurosci 21, 163–173 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41593-017-0065-1

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