Scientists probe key to memory enhancement

Scientists at McGill University are researching the effects of a gene linked to memory enhancement in hopes of developing a new therapy that could be used to improve memory in healthy people as well as treat dementia. In animal studies, researchers found that mice with a defective version of the gene were able to learn faster than others while enhancing the gene's effect was linked to memory impairment. The gene produces a protein that inhibits the physical response associated with memory. Memories are formed when cells are activated frequently enough to strengthen neural connections. The researchers studied to see how long it took mice to find a slightly submerged platform in water.

- read the article from The Guardian