Creating Memories by Disrupting and Repairing DNA

A study in mice has shown that when a long-term memory is formed, some brain cells experience a surge of electrical activity that causes damage to their DNA. This damage triggers an inflammatory response that helps solidify the memory. The researchers involved in the study believe that this process of DNA damage and repair could explain how memories are created and retained. Additionally, it is suggested that this cycle may be disrupted in individuals with neurodegenerative diseases, leading to errors in DNA replication within neurons. In the study, mice were trained to associate a small electrical shock with a certain environment and showed signs of fear when placed back in that environment. The researchers observed changes in gene activity in neurons in the hippocampus, a key brain area for memory, which indicated an involvement of inflammation in memory formation.



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