1๏ธโฃ Forget Synaptic Storage: Memory May Not Be Just in the Synapses ๐ง ๐: The classical synaptic theory, which posits that memories are stored at the junctions between neurons, is being upturned. Experiments involving snail memory transplants hint at an alternative: DNA modifications, or epigenetic alterations, could be a critical aspect of long-term memory storage. ๐๐ก
2๏ธโฃ MeshCODE Theory: Memory in Protein Switches? โ๏ธ๐ค: British scientist Dr. Ben Goult introduces a radical notion called the MeshCODE theory. According to him, memory could operate via a series of protein switches, akin to having an old mechanical computer inside the brain. This theory is still in its infancy but opens the door to mind-blowing possibilities. ๐ฌ๐ง๐
3๏ธโฃ Expanding the Horizon: Cytoelectric Coupling and Beyond โก๐งฌ: Aside from synaptic or epigenetic storage, other theories propose that memories could be stored within neuron membranes or through electric fields within the brain, in structures called engrams. These daring propositions amplify the scope of where and how memories could be stored. ๐๐๏ธ
Supplemental Information โน๏ธ
The article encapsulates a renaissance in memory research, offering a deep dive into unconventional theories. From DNA modifications to protein switches and even electric fields, the scientific community is far from a consensus. Yet, these explorations underline the complexity and multifaceted nature of memory storage.
ELI5 ๐
Scientists are trying to figure out how our brains keep memories. The older idea is that memories are kept in special links between brain cells. But new ideas suggest memories might be stored in our DNA or even in tiny “protein switches” in the brain. These new theories make us question everything we thought we knew about memory. ๐คฏ๐งฌ
๐ #MemoryResearch #EpigeneticTheory #CytoelectricCoupling