A study shows how the brain links events to form a memory

28 May 2020

A study shows how the brain links events to form a memory

A study shows how the brain links events to form a memorySometimes, our brain associates non-related events causing stress. For example, soldiers who have returned from wars may be alarmed and panicked by unrelated loud noises such as utensils clanging or tires bursting.

Recently, scientists at Columbia University, US conducted a study to show how the brain can form such lasting links.

They studied the hippocampus, a region of the brain that has a major role in learning and memory. It is important in forms of learning that involve linking two events that happen even up to 10 to 30 seconds apart
 	In this experiment, the scientists experimented on mice.
 	They exposed the mice to a neutral sound followed after a fifteen-second delay by a small but unpleasant puff of air.
 	Over time, the mice learned to associate the sound with the puff of air.
 	On studying the mice's hippocampus, the scientists discovered that the hippocampus fires off bursts of activity that seem random.
 	However, on a closer look, the activities make up a complex pattern which over time helps the brain learn associations (like associating tires bursting with a scary situation).
 	This complex 'pattern' seems to be a style of mental computing which seems to be an efficient way that neurons (cells in the brain) store information.

Scientists hope that they can use these findings to help manage memory-related mental health disorders such as anxiety and PTSD (Post-traumatic stress disorder).

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Sometimes, our brain associates non-related events causing stress. For example, soldiers who have returned from wars may be alarmed and panicked by unrelated loud noises […]

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