A new study explains how long-term memories are formed and maintained in the brain. Researchers discovered that a molecule called KIBRA acts as a “glue” to other molecules, particularly protein kinase Mzeta (PKMzeta), which is crucial for strengthening synapses. KIBRA serves as a persistent synaptic tag, selectively attaching to strong synapses and PKMzeta while avoiding weak ones, thus allowing memories to endure despite the constant turnover of molecules in neurons. The study, conducted on laboratory mice, shows that disrupting the KIBRA-PKMzeta bond can erase old memories, while increasing PKMzeta can enhance weak or faded memories. This research affirms a concept proposed by Nobel Laureate Francis Crick in 1984, comparing memory storage to the maintenance of Theseus’ Ship, and provides insights that may help address memory-related disorders in the future.
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How Do Our Memories Last Forever?
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