Frequently, as many as one thousand signals rain down on a single neuron simultaneously. To ensure that precise signals are delivered, the brain possesses a sophisticated inhibitory system. Scientists have now illuminated how this system works.
UCLA researchers have for the first time measured the activity of a brain region known to be involved in learning, memory and Alzheimer's disease during sleep. They discovered that the entorhinal cortex behaves as if it's remembering something, even under anesthesia, a finding that counters conventional theories about memory consolidation during sleep.
Researchers discovered a new group of nerve cells that regulate processes of learning and memory. These cells act as gatekeepers and carry a receptor for nicotine, which can help explain our ability to remember and sort information. The newly discovered gatekeeper nerve cells, also called OLM-alpha2 cells, provide an explanation to how the flow of information is controlled in the hippocampus.
Neuroscientists found that astrocytes may be responsible for the rapid improvement in mood in depressed patients after acute sleep deprivation. This study identified how astrocytes can regulate a neurotransmitter involved in sleep.
Researchers discover how two neural circuits work together to control the formation of time-linked memories.
CA2, a small region of the hippocampus, is essential for social learning, a new study reports.
Researchers discover a functional link between an area of the brain associated with taste memory and an area associated with encoding the time and place the memory occurred.
Researchers discover a key receptor which is responsible for activating opposing forms of plasticity in the hippocampus.
A new study confirms that synapses between hippocampal neurons remain for the duration of an episodic memory.
A discovery about pyramidal neurons in the CA3 area of the hippocampus could help researchers develop new treatments for Alzheimer's disease and other age related memory loss problems.
Researchers identify a neural circuit that connects the hippocampus and the entorhinal cortex, which is responsible for encoding episodic memory.
Researchers use optogenetics to tweak neural circuitry and enhance social memory in mice.
