A clue to memory encoding

Memory encoding is a mystery. The strength of neural synaptic connections are involved, but synaptic components are short-lived while memories last lifetimes. This suggests synaptic information is encoded and hard-wired at a deeper molecular scale. New research suggests that memory may be encoded in microtubules, major components of the structural cytoskeleton within neurons. Stuart Hameroff, senior author on the study, said: “Many neuroscience papers conclude by claiming their findings may help understand how the brain works, and treat Alzheimer’s, brain injury and various neurological and psychiatric disorders. This study may actually do that. We may have a glimpse of the brain’s biomolecular code for memory.”