Memories can be selectively removed in rats with an altered memory reactivated in its place, according to a new study by the University of California.
Researchers discovered they can optically stimulate particular nerves in the brain at varying frequencies that either weakened or strengthened the synaptic connections between nerve cells, which allowed for the erasing and reactivation of memory respectively.
Since Alzheimer’s disease is characterised by a similar weakening of synaptic connections, further research may potentially counteract some of the beta amyloid’s effects in Alzheimer’s patients.
Read more at University of California