DNA damage creates memories? (Beginner)

Scientists found that brain inflammation and DNA damage help create long-term memories in the hippocampus.

Previously, inflammation in the brain was thought to be bad, but this study shows it's essential for memory. It happens through a pathway called Toll-Like Receptor 9 (TLR9) after DNA damage in the hippocampus.

These findings challenge old ideas about brain inflammation and warn against stopping the TLR9 pathway completely, as it's vital for memory and stopping it could cause problems.

Key Points:

• Brain inflammation and DNA damage in hippocampal cells are needed for long-term memory.

• Cells in the hippocampus go through DNA damage and repair to form memory clusters.

Be careful with drugs that block the TLR9 pathway, as they may harm memory and cause DNA damage.

• Source: Albert Einstein College of Medicine

Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine discovered that creating long-term memories involves brain inflammation and DNA damage. They published their findings in the journal Nature.

"Inflammation in brain cells is usually seen as harmful, but our research suggests it's necessary for creating lasting memories," said study leader Jelena Radulovic, M.D., Ph.D., a professor at Einstein.

The hippocampus, known for memory, undergoes DNA damage and repair when stimulated, forming memory clusters. This process involves the Toll-Like Receptor 9 (TLR9) pathway, important for immune responses. Blocking this pathway can harm memory and cause DNA damage.

The study involved researchers from Einstein, Northwestern University, Aarhus University, and University Medical Center Göttingen.