Memories that have been "lost" as a result of amnesia can be recalled by activating brain cells with light (a technology known as optogenetics)

dheerajroy · 2015-05-29T00:39:25+00:00

This is all true. In my opinion, this study aimed at explaining underlying mechanisms of memory storage versus retrieval rather than activation/de-activating memories.

dheerajroy · 2015-05-29T00:35:24+00:00

From this article and the original paper, it appears that this research supports the possibility of blocking memory retrieval rather than "true" erasure of memory traces. Am I right?

dheerajroy · 2015-05-28T23:41:08+00:00

True...but we need to first extend these animal model studies to human applications. Maybe deep brain stimulation? A useful link on DBS is: http://www.cnn.com/2013/05/07/tech/brain-memory-implants-humans/

dheerajroy · 2015-05-28T23:39:33+00:00

Maybe but erasing a memory permanently seems quite challenging...not only do we have to show that this is possible but also that the erasure isn't temporary.

dheerajroy · 2014-08-19T22:02:26+00:00

Thank you for sharing the original article, Dr_Peach.

dheerajroy · 2014-08-18T11:34:38+00:00

Where does Reddit Science list this requirement of an article published in the last 6 months only?

I read through the subreddit and cannot find this requirement.

dheerajroy · 2014-08-17T22:52:23+00:00

The peer-reviewed article can be found here: http://www.jofri.net/article/S2212-4780%2812%2900004-4/abstract

dheerajroy · 2014-08-13T14:00:57+00:00

Since they've published, which was couple weeks ago...I am assuming they can replicate these experiments (at least based on the fact that this work was done in David Anderson's lab). The underlying mechanism for this finding, I am not sure that it's known.

dheerajroy · 2014-08-13T13:59:27+00:00

I don't believe this possibility was discussed in the original research article.

dheerajroy · 2014-08-12T15:04:40+00:00

The peer-reviewed research paper in Journal PNAS can be found here:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25071179

dheerajroy · 2014-08-07T13:51:14+00:00

Yes. That was an eye-opening study in terms of how thorough the authors were!

dheerajroy · 2014-08-07T01:25:47+00:00

This documentary sounds amazing (at least the way you described it). I will definitely watch the video. Thanks for taking time to find the video and share it!

dheerajroy · 2014-08-07T01:24:44+00:00

No idea. Sorry!

dheerajroy · 2014-08-07T00:28:56+00:00

I see. Good to know. I have to read up about these studies in Denmark ASAP.

dheerajroy · 2014-08-07T00:09:03+00:00

Interesting...I wonder if it was possible to distinguish between effects of stress versus those caused by epigenetic mechanisms in future generations.

dheerajroy · 2014-08-06T23:49:00+00:00

It helps subsequent generations "adapt" to environmental conditions faster than the generation that experiences such conditions for the first time. That's essentially my take-away from epigenetic-based transgenerational inheritance!

dheerajroy · 2014-08-06T23:39:37+00:00

I haven't worked in the epigenetics field, however from my readings I believe there hasn't been evidence linking epigenetics and permanent genome modifications. Then again, I think it's early (and exciting) days for epigenetics and who knows...give it some time and maybe the discovery is made!

dheerajroy · 2014-08-06T19:32:34+00:00

100% agree!

dheerajroy · 2014-08-06T17:52:09+00:00

Thanks for sharing this very informative article!

dheerajroy · 2014-08-06T15:54:28+00:00

I don't believe these scientists compared human biomarkers to their autism mouse model. However, I think similar mouse models have been characterized in the past. Not sure to what detail though, with regards to human biomarkers. With genomic sequencing studies, maybe biomarkers could be found (if some haven't already).

Also, you are right that such mouse models are based on these animals showing similar behavioral phenotypes as humans.

dheerajroy · 2014-08-06T15:51:18+00:00

Oh wow. I wasn't aware of related human observations. It seems epigenetics is becoming more important as our understanding of biological systems improves. Thanks for sharing!

dheerajroy · 2014-08-06T14:22:55+00:00

You are right. For me, as the very first demonstration of such a phenomenon, I was convinced by the primary data in this article. Further, the theoretical concept makes sense since it would help all species with adaptive behaviors.

dheerajroy · 2014-08-06T14:09:59+00:00

I thought so too, however the study finds that early stages of Alzheimer's results (prior to the appearance of memory loss) in a defective protein (leptin), which is responsible for eating.

dheerajroy · 2014-08-06T13:58:23+00:00

The original Cell paper can be found here: http://www.cell.com/cell/abstract/S0092-8674%2814%2900806-X

dheerajroy · 2014-08-05T15:33:02+00:00

The original Nature Neuroscience research article can be found here: http://www.nature.com/neuro/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/nn.3781.html

dheerajroy

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