Genetic tags reveal secrets of memories' staying power in mice

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Newly synthesized AMPA glutamate receptors (green) were captured by mushroom-shaped spines in mouse hippocampus neurons encoding memory after one (left) two (middle) and six (right) hours of fear conditioning. The receptors are thought to be key to s ...
Newly synthesized AMPA glutamate receptors (green) were captured by mushroom-shaped spines in mouse hippocampus neurons encoding memory, after one (left), two (middle) and six (right) hours of fear conditioning. The receptors are thought to be key to strengthening the memory, making it long-term. The same green fluorescent protein that makes fireflies glow was genetically inserted into the receptors to reveal their destinations in the brain. Credit: Source: Drs. Mark Mayford and Naoki Matsuo, Scripps Research Institute
A better understanding of how memory works is emerging from a newfound ability to link a learning experience in a mouse to consequent changes in the inner workings of its neurons. Researchers, supported in part by the National Institutes of Health's National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), have developed a way to pinpoint the specific cellular components that sustain a specific memory in genetically-engineered mice.


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Topical oral syrup prevents early childhood caries

7 hours ago | User rating: not rated yet
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Just what the doctor ordered: Britain marks 60 years of the NHS

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Breast cancer: How tumor cells break free and form metastases

Jul 04, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
When tumor cells acquire the capacity to move around and invade other tissues, there is a risk of metastases and cancer treatment becomes more difficult. At the Institut Curie, CNRS Director of Research Philippe Chavrier ...

How effective are dental referrals by primary care physicians?

Jul 04, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
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