Memory-guided perception is shaped by dynamic two-stage theta- and alpha-mediated retrieval

Abstract

How does memory influence auditory perception, and what are the underlying mechanisms that drive these interactions? Most empirical studies on the neural correlates of memory-guided perception have used static visual tasks, resulting in a bias in the literature that contrasts with recent research highlighting the dynamic nature of memory retrieval. Here, we used electroencephalography to track the retrieval of auditory associative memories in a cue–target paradigm. Participants (N = 64) listened to real-world soundscapes that were either predictive of an upcoming target tone or nonpredictive. Three key results emerged. First, targets were detected faster when embedded in predictive than in nonpredictive soundscapes (memory-guided perceptual benefit). Second, changes in theta and alpha power differentiated soundscape contexts that were predictive from nonpredictive contexts at two distinct temporal intervals from soundscape onset (early—950 ms peak for theta and alpha, and late—1650 ms peak for alpha only). Third, early theta activity in the left anterior temporal lobe was correlated with memory-guided perceptual benefits. Together, these findings underscore the role of distinct neural processes at different time points during associative retrieval. By emphasizing temporal sensitivity and by isolating cue-related activity, we reveal a two-stage retrieval mechanism that advances our understanding of how memory influences auditory perception.