Getting your memory to retain information can be a frustrating and time consuming process. The latest neuroscience research suggests that forgetting is a form of learning that we should be aware of. This could prove to be useful in some unpredictable situations.
As we learn more, our brains are exposed to more and more information. Unfortunately, this leads to a weakening of connections within the brain. A better way to recall the important stuff is to create a solid network linking the associated pieces together. This is done by staging frequent training interventions.
The brain has a number of dedicated molecular tools to do this task. For one thing, the hippocampus, the brain's memory storage area, is equipped with an impressive number of synapses. These connections allow the brain to search for connections between previous knowledge and new information.
A recent study, for example, showed that a mouse with a gene that inhibits forgetting performed better when it was able to store and retrieve memories of maze layouts from previous trials. The reason behind this is unclear, but it is possible that the brain is incapable of letting go of input that is not pertinent. This could lead to aversion to excess stimuli.
Another study, conducted by Scripps Research Institute professor Ronald L. Davis, showed that the brain's ability to retain information is a key factor in learning. In particular, dopamine plays a big part. Using flies, Davis found a dopamine-releasing circuit in the flies' brains linked to forgetting. Interestingly, this circuit is inhibited by a dopamine blocker, a drug that can be found in some anti-depressants.
Another intriguing tidbit is the fact that there is a mathematical formula that can measure the amount of forgetting you experience in a given period of time. While this is still a work in progress, the research has already shown that the forgetting effect is statistically real.
Despite the fact that you can't always remember everything you learn, there are a number of strategies that can help you make the most of your learning experience. For instance, you can use a visual aid to help organize the information you're studying. This is particularly useful if you're preparing for a test or exam. If you're reading a long piece of text, take the time to edit the text and make it shorter and more readable. The best way to remember information is to use it regularly.
The science of forgetting is still a mystery, but we're getting closer to understanding the complexities of how our brains store and retrieve information. The latest research may shed some light on this mystery and other aspects of cognitive health.
The neuroscience of forgetting may have a lot to tell us about our cognitive health and other mysteries of the human brain. In particular, it may point the way to breakthroughs in the treatment of autism. The brain's ability to retain information is aided by a number of neurotransmitters and proteins. Interestingly, these compounds aren't found in a single location; they are distributed throughout the cerebral cortex.
This is important.