Biologists have increased the memory capacity of mice using light

A group of researchers from the State University of the Autonomous Community of Barcelona (Spain) and Harvard University (USA) have developed a technology to increase long-term memory through optogenetics. The results of the work may form the basis of therapy for fear-related disorders.

In an experiment on mice, the scientists stimulated Tac2 neurons located in the amygdala, the brain region responsible for the feeling of fear. Beforehand, a virus that increases Tac2's sensitivity to light was injected into the amygdalae of the experimental group of animals. Their level of memory was then compared with individuals whose cells remained in a normal state.

The rodents simultaneously received electrical pulses preceded by a beep. A few days later, the mice whose neurons were additionally activated showed better susceptibility to the "dangerous" sound and a more intense fear response. Animals in the control group lost their memory of the stimulus earlier.

"Our discovery emphasises the important role of Tac2 neurons in the regulation of the feeling of fear and opens new possibilities for the treatment of phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. In addition, it has the potential to help find ways to improve the memory of healthy individuals or patients with memory impairment," Dr Raul Andero said.

In the near future, the researchers intend to continue studying the mechanisms of fear learning. In particular, scientists are interested in how the almond-shaped body interacts with other parts of the brain in the formation of relevant memories.