Neural mechanisms underlying the transformation between egocentric and allocentric spatial reference frames

Abstract: Organisms utilize both egocentric and allocentric reference frames to encode and represent spatial information, and the transformation between these two frames lies at the heart of cognitive map formation and application. Previous studies have suggested that the parietal cortex, retrosplenial cortex, and medial temporal lobe circuit support spatial reference frame transformations, but the precise neural mechanisms remain elusive. Grounded in computational models, we propose to employ intracranial EEG recordings to comprehensively investigate the neural dynamics underlying spatial reference frame transformation through three key avenues: (1) characterizing the dynamic representations of egocentric and allocentric spatial variables across the parietal cortex, retrosplenial cortex, and medial temporal lobe; (2) elucidating the integrative role of the retrosplenial cortex in jointly encoding egocentric and allocentric spatial information; (3) mapping the patterns of neural interaction and directional information flow among these regions during reference frame transformations. Building upon these findings, deep brain stimulation will be applied to the retrosplenial cortex within safe parameters to explore the causal mechanisms underlying reference frame transformation. This study aspires not only to advance the theoretical framework of spatial navigation but also to provide novel insights for the development of targeted interventions to address age-related spatial cognitive decline.