Mina C. Johnson-Glenberg, Ph.D.
Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin - Madison
$67,000 awarded 10/2000

by Mina Johnson-Glenberg, 10/2000

This study will attempt to bridge one of the gaps between neurology and behavior. Based on the research regarding hippocampal size and differences in the dendrites and spines of those with fragile X syndrome, I will be researching how long-term and working memory interact in two different populations.

A computational neural network will be created to simulate memory processing leading to a finer-grained model of the information processing style and cognitive capabilities of those with fragile X. To this end, I have designed a working memory sequential memory task that feels like a card game. Long-term and sequential working memory will also be assessed in a typically developing mental age match group. A neural network model that simulates the interplay of hippocampal and prefrontal memory in typically developing children will first be created. Parameters in the typically developing model will be adjusted until the pattern of results mimics the results of those with fragile X.

Neural networks are powerful tools that can provide insights into the particular strengths and weaknesses found in the fragile X cognitive profile. Analyzing such models can help to guide the development of remediation programs and provide neurologically theory-driven explanations for various cognitive deficits (e.g., why individuals with fragile X have such trouble learning to read in the usual sequential phonemic manner).