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Neural and behavioral effects of adaptive semantic long-term memory retrieval training: A task fMRI study
Haobo Zhang1, Bin Zhang1, Ma Xiaofeng1
1School of Psychology, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China; Key Laboratory of Education Digitalization of Gansu Province, Lanzhou 730070, China; Provincial Key Laboratory of Behavioral and Mental health, Lanzhou 730070, China.
Biological Psychology
|May 4, 2026
Summary
Cognitive training improved semantic long-term memory retrieval (SLTMR) and brain activity in key semantic regions. This targeted training enhanced specific memory functions, with limited effects on broader cognitive skills.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Neuroplasticity
Background:
- Semantic long-term memory retrieval (SLTMR) is crucial for higher-order cognition.
- Previous research suggests cognitive training can improve SLTMR, but neural mechanisms are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neural mechanisms of cognitive training effects on SLTMR.
- To determine if adaptive training enhances SLTMR and associated cognitive functions.
Main Methods:
- 58 participants were randomized into adaptive training or active control groups.
- Training involved 18 sessions of adaptive Posner task-based training.
- fMRI was used to assess brain activity during semantic retrieval tasks.
Main Results:
- The training group showed significant improvements in SLTMR tasks and near-transfer tasks.
- Faster reaction times were observed in categorization and Posner tasks post-training.
- fMRI revealed increased activation in the left superior temporal gyrus (temporal pole) in the training group.
Conclusions:
- Targeted SLTMR training selectively enhances domain-specific semantic retrieval.
- Training-induced functional plasticity in key semantic regions supports these improvements.
- Effects on broader cognitive domains were less pronounced in this study.
