ABSTRACT

This chapter addresses the neurobiological mechanisms that may underlie pro­ spective memory. In our work, we have exploited the use of computational modeling techniques to help identify the role that specific brain structures play in cognition. In particular, we have used such techniques to characterize the function of prefrontal cortex and hippocampus in terms of specific processing mechanisms. This work suggests that an important function of prefrontal cor­ tex is the representation and maintenance of contextual information-infor­ mation that must be held in mind in such a form that it can be used to medi­ ate an appropriate behavioral response. At the same time, our work supports the idea that an important function of the hippocampus is to rapidly establish novel associations, that can also be used to guide behavior. In our view, pros­ pective memory reflects the interaction between these two systems, allowing established sequences of behavior to be associated with new conditions-in ef­ fect, providing a mechanism for planning.