All articles tagged with #place cells
Scientists have discovered that the brain uses a scaffolding system involving place cells and grid cells in the hippocampus to organize memories sequentially, acting like an index that directs us to specific content in the cortex, which could improve understanding of memory processes and aid in developing better memory strategies and AI systems.
Researchers have discovered that place cells in the hippocampus release endocannabinoids to communicate position information, challenging previous beliefs about the spread and speed of these signals. This finding not only advances our understanding of spatial navigation but also opens new possibilities for addressing cognitive aspects of neurological disorders like epilepsy. Understanding endocannabinoid signaling in spatial orientation could lead to new strategies for managing cognitive issues in conditions such as epilepsy.
Two studies led by UCLA researchers have shed light on how neurons in the human brain represent time and space. The first study found that "place cells" and "time cells" operate independently but concurrently during navigation tasks, suggesting that time and space are separable dimensions at the neuron level. The second study discovered that certain neurons exhibit periodic firing patterns over different time scales, potentially providing a mechanism for encoding time in the brain. These findings contribute to our understanding of the neural basis of consciousness and memory formation.
Rats reinforce their memories of negative experiences in familiar places by repetitively replaying them in their minds, according to a study by RIKEN neuroscientists. The researchers found that specific neurons known as place cells, which generate a mental map of familiar locations, can be altered when the animal encounters a negative experience. The study suggests that understanding how the brain processes and recalls traumatic experiences could lead to new treatments for psychiatric disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).