Are memories in the DNA?
Monday October 31st, 2011
Some memories may be implanted deep within the genes of the brain, according to major new findings revealed last night.
A
whole set of newly discovered genes works continuously at adjusting the
DNA of the brain, according to the findings of a project led by researchers
at Edinburgh University, UK.
The genes are known as retrotransposons, scientists reported in the journal Nature.
The Roslin Institute researchers worked with scientists in the Netherlands, Italy, Australia, Japan and the USA on the project.
They now want to establish the extent to which retrotransposons play a part in brain diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease.
Edinburgh researcher Dr Geoff Faulkner said: "This research completely overturns the belief that the genetic make-up of brain cells remains static throughout life and provides us with new information about how the brain works.
"If we can understand better how these subtle genetic changes occur we could shed light on how brain cells regenerate, how processes like memory formation may have a genetic basis and possibly link the activity of these genes to brain diseases."
Nature October 30 2011) doi:10.1038/nature10531
Tags: Brain & Neurology | Genetics | UK News
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