title: Unraveling the Biology of Auditory Learning: A Cognitive-Sensorimotor-Reward Framework.
abstract: The auditory system is stunning in its capacity for change: a single neuron can modulate its tuning in minutes. Here we articulate a conceptual framework to understand the biology of auditory learning where an animal must engage cognitive, sensorimotor, and reward systems to spark neural remodeling. Central to our framework is a consideration of the auditory system as an integrated whole that interacts with other circuits to guide and refine life in sound. Despite our emphasis on the auditory system, these principles may apply across the nervous system. Understanding neuroplastic changes in both normal and impaired sensory systems guides strategies to improve everyday communication.
authors.affiliation: Auditory Neuroscience Laboratory and Department of Communication Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Physiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA; Department of Otolaryngology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA. Electronic address: nkraus@northwestern.edu.
authors.forename: Nina
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Kraus
authors.affiliation: Auditory Neuroscience Laboratory and Department of Communication Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.
authors.forename: Travis
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: White-Schwoch
mesh_terms: D001306:Auditory Pathways / Q000502:physiology*; D003071:Cognition / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D007804:Language Development; D007858:Learning / Q000502:physiology*; D008959:Models, Neurological; D009473:Neuronal Plasticity; D009474:Neurons / Q000502:physiology; D012201:Reward; D012677:Sensation / Q000502:physiology*
keywords: auditory learning; language development; language impairment; neuroplasticity