Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mouse: scientists can now erase memories in mice

[Kythereia]

@cbc.ca

In a finding worthy of a science fiction novel, U.S. scientists reported they could selectively erase specific memories in mice without affecting recall of other events.

Research published in the journal Neuron found that the manipulation of a type of protein in the brain can wipe out certain memories in the brains of mice.

The study elicited memory loss by manipulating the activity of a protein called alpha-CaM kinase II, which is involved in learning and memory.

Link.

Joel: Is there any risk of brain damage?
Howard: Well, technically speaking, the operation is brain damage, but it’s on a par with a night of heavy drinking. Nothing you’ll miss.

[kasuo]

That’s a trip. Time to get the Lacuna Inc. website up and running!

[Tuckerfan]

@kasuo

That’s a trip. Time to get the Lacuna Inc. website up and running!

[George Harrison] Eh, its been done. [/GH]

[CalMeacham]

Responses:
—So what’s a mouse got to remember?
– It’s like Flowers for Algernon, without that annoying first part
–Who moved my cheese?