Memory is a tricky thing. Some people have photographic memories, while others forget details. Some even suffer from debilitating brain diseases that affect memory, including those with Alzheimer's.
We still don't know how exactly the brain handles memories. Previous research has given us ideas and even pointed us to specific proteins that aid the process, but the full total recall memory system of the brain remains a mystery.
However, a team of scientists from the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center recently discovered a new protein that affects the brain in recalling memories. This protein acts as a brake that turns recall off, and when removed, turns recall back on.
"Previous research has shown that production of new molecules is necessary for storing memories in the brain; if you block the production of these molecules, new memory formation does not take place," says neuroscientist, Dr. Keith Murai. "Our findings show that the brain has a key protein that limits the production of molecules necessary for memory formation. When this brake-protein is suppressed, the brain is able to store more information."
This protein is Fragile X Related Protein 1, or FXR1P, discovered by researchers when studying a model of a mouse's brain. The model simulated what changes occur when the brain creates new memories. This protein turned up when memories when the brain suppressed memories. However, when the protein was selectively removed from the brain, memory improved, making recall greater.
Scientists believe this protein is responsible for turning memory recall on and off, the first time researchers have linked FXR1P with this action. This could lead to new treatment options for brain diseases.
"For example, in autism, one may want to decrease certain brain activity and in Alzheimer's disease, we may want to enhance the activity," says Murai. "By manipulating FXR1P, we may eventually be able to adjust memory formation and retrieval, thus improving the quality of life of people suffering from brain diseases."
Future research will focus on what process in the brain triggers FXR1P to suppress memories. Understanding that will be crucial in understanding how doctors could one day affect the protein to help those suffering from brain illnesses.
Scientists have already discovered a multi-pronged approach in treating Alzheimer's, including dietary changes, an exercise regime and vitamins, that recently worked in a group of patients. Perhaps these new understandings of how the brain makes memories, combined with the physical processes that affect the ability to recall them, will eventually mean we can eventually stamp out this ugly disease that currently affects over 5 million Americans.
[Photo Credit: Wiki Commons]
