Oscillatory brain mechanisms for memory formation: Online and offline processes

Brain oscillations refer to rhythmic activity of neural populations, which can be observed in the human brain. The temporal structure of these oscillations can influence neural firing and, in turn, affect information processing and synaptic plasticity. In this manner, oscillatory activity could shape the neural mechanisms of memory formation. This chapter reviews how oscillations relate to human memory processes. It discusses the potential functions of oscillatory activity in different brain regions, such as the neocortex and the hippocampus. Furthermore, it discusses the potential role of neural oscillations during the different stages of memory formation, from encoding processes during wakefulness to offline processes during sleep. Studies that observe oscillations during memory experiments are discussed alongside studies that manipulate oscillations attempting to behaviorally impact on memory. The reviewed literature suggests that oscillations may hold important answers as to how the human brain manages to encode, maintain, and consolidate memories.