A recent study by scientists has discovered a critical pathway through which neurons transmit information from their limbs, such as dendrites, to their nucleus, allowing the activation of genes vital for learning and memory.. The discovery sheds light on the molecular processes that link synaptic activity to long-term changes in the brain, providing significant insights into the formation of memory and cognitive function, as well as clues to the treatment of cognitive complications, writes the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus..

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The study, led by Mark Dell'Acqua, a professor of pharmacology at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and published in the Journal of Neuroscience, examined the mechanisms that allow neurons to coordinate local synaptic activity with gene expression in the neuronal nucleus..

“This work is fundamentally a major scientific discovery of the fundamental process of how nerve cells work,” says Dell’Acqua. “Understanding this relay system not only expands our knowledge of how the brain works, but may also better inform therapeutic treatments for cognitive disorders.”.

The scientists' findings highlight the role of cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), a transcription factor that regulates genes critical to synaptic changes.. cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) is a kind of “switch” inside our brain cells that controls the activation of certain genes.

When neurons in your brain are active, such as when we learn something new or remember something, signals are sent to CREB. Upon receiving these signals, CREB turns on the necessary genes to make changes in brain cells, enhancing their ability to communicate with each other. It is very important for long term memory and learning.

To make things easier to understand, CREB can be thought of as a brain cell's way of turning on the lights in a room full of tools needed to create stronger connections between neurons.. Without this process, the brain would have a much harder time learning new things or retaining memories..

Although the role of CREB in learning and memory is well known, this study has clarified the precise mechanisms that trigger it during neuronal activity.. Using advanced microscopy, graduate student Kathleen Zent and her team identified a relay system involving calcium signals generated by activated receptors and ion channels in dendrites..

These signals quickly travel to the nucleus, causing CREB activation and subsequent gene expression. This process provides neurons with the ability to integrate input signals from distant synapses and transform them into long-term functional and structural changes.. Study demonstrates how neurons overcome physical challenges associated with the distance between synaptic sites and the nucleus.

Dell'Acqua highlighted the potential implications of this discovery for understanding diseases that affect memory. "

Targeting specific components of this pathway may allow researchers to target gene expression abnormalities associated with these diseases. Alzheimer's disease and related memory disorders are a serious global problem. According to the World Health Organization, more than 55 million people worldwide live with dementia, and this number is expected to nearly double every 20 years..

Research into the molecular mechanisms of memory formation, such as this work, may play a critical role in mitigating this public health problem.. Advances in understanding how memory-related genes are activated could pave the way for treatments that will slow or reverse even the most severe cognitive decline.

Previously, Focus wrote about how brushing your teeth helps identify Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease has a variety of symptoms, one of which is the decline of motor functions, which can easily manifest themselves in the most mundane activities..

Focus also wrote that you can fight Alzheimer's disease with food. A study has shown that a person with Alzheimer's disease can significantly improve their condition by changing the way they eat..

Important! This article is based on and does not contradict the latest scientific and medical research. The text is for informational purposes only and does not contain medical advice.. To establish a diagnosis, be sure to consult a doctor.