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A new look at memory processes: the brain can predict the future!
Scientists at Cornell University have discovered for the first time that the area of the brain responsible for memory consists of two parts: one is responsible for remembering the past, time and location, and the other is more predictive and actively forms future behavior.
The researchers found that in the hippocampus (the part of the brain responsible for memory formation and processing, spatial navigation, and learning), one type of neural code is responsible for our spatial memory, such as where to go if we need to buy bread. The second type of neural code, the predictive part, involves formulating new plans on the go. For example, if a bakery is unexpectedly closed, a second part of the brain is activated to develop an alternative plan and predict a new path, making behavior more flexible.
The researchers conducted a series of experiments on rats to study in more detail how memory works in the brain. They placed a set of electrodes in the rat's brain to simultaneously track all activated neurons, and used optogenetics to control this activity. The virus was then used to subdue, but not completely silence, one particular set of neurons.
In one experiment, the rats had to memorize the path from point A to point D, where a reward was waiting for them. However, when the scientists turned off certain neurons in the brain, the rats were unable to correctly remember this pathway. Interestingly, after sleeping, the rats could recall points A and D in their memory, but they could not recall important details about the path they had to take.
In another experiment, the rats had to find a new path every day to get a reward. When the scientists turned off certain neurons, the rats could no longer remember how to find a reward, as they lacked the ability to form new plans and predict.
The researchers also conducted a test in which rats were asked to associate a specific location with a reward. When they turned off a specific part of the brain responsible for prediction, the rats associative memory remained unchanged. These experiments confirmed that two different types of memory in the brain function independently of each other and perform different roles.
The results of the experiment allowed scientists to better understand what specific neural processes are behind various aspects of memory and cognitive abilities, which can lead to the development of more effective treatments for diseases associated with memory loss, such as Alzheimer's disease and dementia, and help patients maintain their quality of life.
Scientists at Cornell University have discovered for the first time that the area of the brain responsible for memory consists of two parts: one is responsible for remembering the past, time and location, and the other is more predictive and actively forms future behavior.
The researchers found that in the hippocampus (the part of the brain responsible for memory formation and processing, spatial navigation, and learning), one type of neural code is responsible for our spatial memory, such as where to go if we need to buy bread. The second type of neural code, the predictive part, involves formulating new plans on the go. For example, if a bakery is unexpectedly closed, a second part of the brain is activated to develop an alternative plan and predict a new path, making behavior more flexible.
The researchers conducted a series of experiments on rats to study in more detail how memory works in the brain. They placed a set of electrodes in the rat's brain to simultaneously track all activated neurons, and used optogenetics to control this activity. The virus was then used to subdue, but not completely silence, one particular set of neurons.
In one experiment, the rats had to memorize the path from point A to point D, where a reward was waiting for them. However, when the scientists turned off certain neurons in the brain, the rats were unable to correctly remember this pathway. Interestingly, after sleeping, the rats could recall points A and D in their memory, but they could not recall important details about the path they had to take.
In another experiment, the rats had to find a new path every day to get a reward. When the scientists turned off certain neurons, the rats could no longer remember how to find a reward, as they lacked the ability to form new plans and predict.
The researchers also conducted a test in which rats were asked to associate a specific location with a reward. When they turned off a specific part of the brain responsible for prediction, the rats associative memory remained unchanged. These experiments confirmed that two different types of memory in the brain function independently of each other and perform different roles.
The results of the experiment allowed scientists to better understand what specific neural processes are behind various aspects of memory and cognitive abilities, which can lead to the development of more effective treatments for diseases associated with memory loss, such as Alzheimer's disease and dementia, and help patients maintain their quality of life.
