The Impact of Targeted Memory Reactivation on Declarative Memory During Slow-Wave Sleep : A Systematic Review

Abstract: The method targeted memory reactivation (TMR) uses specific stimulation when subjects are completing tasks and during sleep. The TMR process is known to influence the consolidation of declarative memories. The aim of this thesis is to conduct a systematic review on the effects of TMR on declarative memory consolidation during slow-wave sleep (SWS). The research question is to answer what effect TMR during SWS has on the consolidation of declarative memory in healthy humans when presented with associated cues of the targeted learning experiences. Eighteen studies were included in this review. Four studies found a significant effect of TMR on declarative memory consolidation, and 10 found a non-significant effect. In four studies the effect of TMR depended on different inclusions, analyses, and factors, for example between slow oscillation up-and down-states and between participants that vary in pre-sleep performance in the examined task. In contrast to previous findings, this review does not provide evidence for the effect of TMR on declarative memories during SWS. More research analysing different factors, such as different cues, age of participants, duration of SWS, and specific experimental tasks, needs to be done in the fields of TMR and auditory cues.