Dynamic semantic cognition: Characterising coherent and controlled conceptual retrieval through time using magnetoencephalography and chronometric transcranial magnetic stimulation

• DOI: 10.1101/168203
• Publication Date: 2017-07-26T12:45:16Z
• Authors: Catarina Teige; Giovanna Mollo; Rebecca Millman; Nicola Savill; Jonathan Smallwood; Piers L. Cornelissen; Elizabeth Jefferies
• Keywords: Magnetoencephalography; Temporal cortex; Middle temporal gyrus

Abstract Distinct neural processes are thought to support the retrieval of semantic information that is (i) coherent with strongly-encoded aspects knowledge, and (ii) non-dominant yet relevant for current task or context. While brain regions controlled patterns relatively well-characterised, temporal dynamics these not well-understood. This study used magnetoencephalography (MEG) dual-pulse chronometric transcranial magnetic stimulation (cTMS) in two separate experiments examine within lobe during strong weak associations. MEG results revealed a dissociation left cortex: anterior (ATL) showed greater oscillatory response than associations, while posterior middle gyrus (pMTG) reverse pattern. In cTMS experiment, ATL at ~150ms disrupted efficient indicating necessary role conceptual activations. Stimulation pMTG onset second word suggesting this site may maintain about context from first word, allowing engagement control. Together studies provide converging evidence functional lobe, across both tasks time.