Uncovering the Genes Responsible for Memory Preservation Across Millions of Years
Today, scientists announce a revolutionary discovery: the first gene to be identified that has been linked to long-term memory formation in humans. This gene has been found to be active for over a million years, making it the oldest known gene associated with memory formation. This groundbreaking research, published in Nature Neuroscience, could have major implications for understanding the evolution of memory and how it works in the human brain.
A team of researchers from the University of Cambridge have identified a gene, called KIBRA, which is strongly associated with the formation of long-term memories. KIBRA has been found to be active in humans for at least 1.2 million years, making it the oldest known gene related to memory formation. This gene is present in all humans, and is thought to play a key role in the formation of memories.
The researchers believe that the discovery of this gene could provide insight into how memories are formed and how they evolve over time. This could lay the groundwork for future studies on memory formation and better treatments for memory-related disorders.
source: Phys.org