University scientists believe memories are more robust than
previously thought
(August 4, 2015) A
team of University scientists believe they have shown that memories are more
robust than we thought and have identified the process in the brain, which
could help rescue lost memories or bury bad memories, and pave the way for new
drugs and treatment for people with memory problems.
Published in the journal Nature Communications a team of
scientists from the University’s School of Biosciences and Neuroscience and
Mental Health Research Institute found that reminders could reverse the amnesia
caused by methods previously thought to produce total memory loss in rats.
“Previous research in this area found that when you recall a
memory it is sensitive to interference to other information and in some cases
is completely wiped out. Our research challenges this view and we believe
proves this not the case,” according to Dr Kerrie Thomas, who led the research.
“Our research found that despite using a technique in the
brain thought to produce total amnesia we’ve been able to show that with strong
reminders, these memories can be recovered.”
Whilst the results were found in rats, the team hope it can
be translated into humans and new drugs and treatments could be developed for
people suffering with memory disorders.