Light Alone Can Activate Specific Memories

Researches at MIT have shown that direct reactivation of specific neurons of the hippocampus can lead to specific memory recall. This was found by animal testing on mice. Researchers tracked which neuron is stimulated after a shock to the foot of a mouse by using channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) and tiny optical fibers. Later, the mouse was put in a different environment and the same neuron was stimulated with only light. The mouse retracted into a defensive position signaling that a fear response was induced. This shows that the memory of the previous shock was recalled by teh light stimulation.

This research and the developments about how memory recall works in the hippocampus could lead to advancements in cures for neurodegenerative diseases and neuropsychiatric disorders such as Alzheimers, Parkinsons,  and Dementia. The other take away from the experiment is that, despite previous opposition to the idea,  the brain may be able to be studied as a natural science because the mind is based on changes in matter.

In class, we have discussed many neurodegenerative diseases and the effects of them. I have also  witnessed the effects first hand because one of my friends had a set grandparents who both suffered from neurodegenerative diseases (one from Dementia and one from Alzheimer). The diseases and there symptoms are heartbreaking. This article is interesting to me because of the promising advancements in the treatment of these diseases which severely affects not just the sufferer of the disease, but also everyone that they are close too.

http://news.cnet.com/8301-27083_3-57403465-247/mit-study-light-alone-can-activate-specific-memories/

Mouse Hippocampus