Memory Relies on Astrocytes

New research from the Salk Institute shows that the brain’s astrocytes may in fact control gamma oscillations. In an animal study recently published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers report a new strategy to turn down gamma oscillations by disabling astrocytes. In the process, the team showed that astrocytes, and the gamma oscillations they help shape, are critical for some forms of memory. “This is what could be called a smoking gun,” said co-author Terrence Sejnowski. “This is the first time we have been able to do a causal experiment, where we selectively block gamma oscillations and show that it has a highly specific impact on how the brain interacts with the world.” To learn more about the study, click here.