Neurobiological Foundations of an Attribute Model of Memory

Memory is a complex phenomenon due to a large number of potential interactions that are associated with the organization of memory at the psychological and neural system level. In this review article a tripartite, multiple attribute, multiple process memory model with different forms of memory and its neurobiological underpinnings is represented in terms of the nature, structure or content of information representation as a set of different attributes including language, time, place, response, reward value (affect) and visual object as an example of sensory-perception. For each attribute, information is processed in the event-based, knowledge-based, and rule-based memory systems through multiple operations that involve multiple neural underpinnings. Of the many processes associated with the event-based memory system, the emphasis will be placed on short-term or working memory and pattern separation. Of the many processes associated with the knowledgebased memory system, the emphasis will be placed on perceptual processes. Of the many processes associated with the rule-based memory system the emphasis will be on short-term or working memory and paired associate learning. For all three systems data will be presented to demonstrate differential neuroanatomical mediation and where available parallel results will be presented in rodents, monkeys and humans.