Findings: Proteins Anchor Long-Term Memories in Brain

A mathematician at University of Utah Brain Institute has published a paper detailing how long-term memories may be stored in the brain. The paper proposes that in a synapse, the junction between neurons, proteins called "AMPA receptors" are held in place by another set of proteins called "scaffolding proteins." The neurotransmitter glutamate binds to AMPA receptors during chemical transmissions. The more AMPA receptors to receive glutamate, and in turn the more scaffolding proteins to bind them, the stronger the synapse--and its ability to hold information over time.

"The essential idea is that synapses are in a constant state of flux, so how can they be the seat of memories that can last a lifetime?" says mathematics Professor Paul Bressloff..."Part of the answer is that there are anchors inside the synapse that keep proteins in place, and these proteins help determine how strong a synapse is, which in turn contributes to forming and retaining memories."

In addition to memory and learning, these findings may also shed light on Alzheimer's disease, which has previously been linked to breakdowns in the movement of synaptic proteins.

Read more: Math Study: Holding Nerve-Signal Receptors in Place is Crucial