The Biology of Memory
Memory is a complicated phenomenon.
Researchers still don’t know exactly how it works at the physiological level.
Long-term memory involves the hippocampus of the brain. Some researchers think
the hippocampus binds together different elements of a memory, which are stored
in separate areas of the brain. In other words, the hippocampus helps with
memory organization. Other researchers think that the hippocampus helps with
memory consolidation, or the transfer of information into long-term
memory.
The brain area involved in processing a memory
may determine where memories are stored. For example, memories of visual
information probably end up in the visual cortex. Research suggests that there
may be specific neural circuits for particular memories. Psychologists also
think that memory relates to changes in neurotransmitter release from neurons,
fluctuations in hormone levels, and protein synthesis in the brain.
Memories on Your Nerves
Long-term potentiation is a lasting change at
synapses that occurs when long-term memories form. Synapses become more
responsive as a result. Researchers believe long-term potentiation is the basic
process behind memory and learning.
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