Memory leaks: information shared across memory systems.

Abstract

The brain is highly segregated. Multiple mechanisms ensure that different types of memories are processed independently. Nonetheless, information leaks out across these memory systems. Only recently has the diversity of these leaks been revealed. Different memory types (skills vs. facts) can interact in simple ways, either allowing or preventing their further processing, or in more complex ways, allowing the sharing of abstract information between memories. Leaks occur from memories dependent upon hippocampal circuits, which have properties critical for leaks and activity patterns related to memory interactions. This hippocampal contribution is likely achieved in concert with cortical areas. Leaks between memories enable the application of knowledge in novel situations, explain learning dynamics, and solve important problems inherent to memory formation.