Question

Need Help for Class 12 Biology Project. Just for discussion please DM me.

Topic : Erasing or Implanting Human Memory​

Answer 1

Abstract

This project describes how to utilize the memory formation mechanism discovered in recent years together with optogenetics, a technology used to manipulate human brain cells, to cure Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It has been discovered that memory is stored in brain cells called neurons that physically reside together, rather than scattered throughout the brain. Such groups of brain cells are called engrams, referring to where memory is stored. As a result, it is possible to target an engram. We can manipulate them in such a way that people can forget specific memories either temporarily or permanently. Since only specific brain cells related to specific memories are targeted, all the other memories are intact. However, that isn’t the best part. We can plant good memories into the human brain as well! The above are achieved via optogenetics, a technology using light to control neurons, the brain cells responsible for processing and transmitting information. The process starts with identification of the neurons associated with a particular engram that is responsible for a specific piece of memory. Then, light sensitive opsins are inserted into the engram, turning the neurons in that area light sensitive. After that, fiber optics or micro LEDs are implanted to target the light sensitive neurons. The light is controlled by a microchip to turn on or off those neurons to manipulate memory. For forgetting a specific memory, the light is activated to control the neurons that release certain chemicals, such as alpha-CaM kinase II, that erase memories. Alternatively, the light can also be used to deactivate neurons responsible for memory storage, preventing the memory from being recalled. For implanting good memories, the process is more complicated. The subject is prepared with memories of good feelings, such as a delicious dinner being served. Later, the subject is put in another environment, such as the dirty small room where his poor family lives. The light is then turned on to recall the good feeling in this environment, effectively creating the false memory that the good feeling took place in this environment. As a result, the subject likes this environment. After the traumatic memory is removed, and the good memory is implanted, the PTSD patients are able to escape from the previous event, and restore their life.

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Answer 2

Answer:

This project describes how to utilize the memory formation mechanism discovered in recent years together with optogenetics, a technology used to manipulate human brain cells, to cure Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

It has been discovered that memory is stored in brain cells called neurons that physically reside together, rather than scattered throughout the brain. Such groups of brain cells are called engrams, referring to where memory is stored. As a result, it is possible to target an engram. We can manipulate them in such a way that people can forget specific memories either temporarily or permanently. Since only specific brain cells related to specific memories are targeted, all the other memories are intact. However, that isn’t the best part. We can plant good memories into the human brain as well!