Scientists have recently discovered how to restore, diminish, and possibly enhance memories- by the flip of a switch. By using an electronic system that imitates neural signals associated with memory, researchers were able to switch on and off learned behaviors in rats, and were able to preserve memory even when the rats were drugged to forget.
Using embedded electrical probes, researchers were able to monitor two specific areas within the hippocampus of the rats’ brains, sub regions CA3 and CA1, which are responsible to converting short-term memory to long-term memory. The team was able to develop an artificial hippocampal system that could replicate this activity. The team further demonstrated that the device could be used to strengthen memory being generated in the brain and enhance memory capability. In the future, this technology may be adapted to develop prosthetics for people with Alzheimer’s disease or stroke.
Using embedded electrical probes, researchers were able to monitor two specific areas within the hippocampus of the rats’ brains, sub regions CA3 and CA1, which are responsible to converting short-term memory to long-term memory. The team was able to develop an artificial hippocampal system that could replicate this activity. The team further demonstrated that the device could be used to strengthen memory being generated in the brain and enhance memory capability. In the future, this technology may be adapted to develop prosthetics for people with Alzheimer’s disease or stroke.
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