Abstract
Concrete conceptual knowledge is supported by a distributed neural network representing different semantic features according to the neuroanatomy of sensory and motor systems. If and how this framework applies to abstract knowledge is currently debated. Here we investigated the specific brain correlates of different abstract categories. After a systematic a priori selection of brain regions involved in semantic cognition, i.e. responsible of, respectively, semantic representations and cognitive control, we used a fMRI-adaptation paradigm with a passive reading task, in order to modulate the neural response to abstract (emotions, cognitions, attitudes, human actions) and concrete (biological entities, artefacts) categories. Different portions of the left anterior temporal lobe responded selectively to abstract and concrete concepts. Emotions and attitudes adapted the left middle temporal gyrus, whereas concrete items adapted the left fusiform gyrus. Our results suggest that, similarly to concrete concepts, some categories of abstract knowledge have specific brain correlates corresponding to the prevalent semantic dimensions involved in their representation.
Highlights
Abstract concepts have been traditionally considered as a unique domain
The CONDITION × ROI interaction revealed a significant effect in two semantic-related regions, namely the Left Middle Temporal Gyrus (L-MTG, rostral Brodmann Area 21, MNI coordinates: − 53, 2, − 30) and the Left Fusiform Gyrus (L FG, rostro-ventral Brodmann Area 20, MNI coordinates: − 33, − 16, − 32)
We selected 15 semantic representation- and 11 semantic control-related regions from the integration of information derived from literature and BrainMap database, and used them to investigate the neural correlates of different kinds of abstract and concrete concepts, by means of an fMRI-A paradigm
Summary
Abstract concepts have been traditionally considered as a unique domain. According to the Dual Coding Theory abstract concepts rely solely on verbal information[1,2]. According to “embodied” theories, concrete concepts involve distributed neural networks coding perceptual and motor information, differently contributing in characterizing specific categories, e.g. animals, tools[6,7] If and how this framework applies to abstract concepts is still debated. In accordance with the recent framework proposing that the storage and processing of word meaning is underpinned by neural systems subserving both the representation of conceptual knowledge and the control of its access, use and m anipulation[24], our first aim is to apply a novel approach combining literature review and BrainMap database in order to select the brain regions supporting both these processes That abstract concepts have a high variability in meaning and appear in a broad range of contexts and situations[25,26], leading to the assumption that abstract, compared to concrete concepts pose higher demands on control functions[27], revealed, for instance, by a greater activation of the left inferior frontal gyrus[28]
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