Litigation

New research on memory-how it is formed, where it resides within the brain

By Michael Kaplen

Researchers have long known that the brain houses different memory in different locations and that there are different types of memories within the brain.  It is much more complicated then just the concept of long term memory or short term memory and involves memories of events,memory of facts. memories related to music as well as memories of motor learning such as bicycle riding.

Much still needs to be learned about these different types of memory, where they are stored and how they are interconnected within the brain.  Now researchers will be aided by the donation of the brain of Henry Molaison, known during his life by the medical community as "H.M"  This individual lost his ability to form new memories following an operation he had in 1953 when a portion of his brain was removed to control seizures. 

Following the removal of brain tissue, it was observed that he would continue to repeat the same story without any knowledge or memory that he just told it.  Each time he would go to a store or meet an individual, it would be like it was the first time.  His memory has been widely studied during his life and researchers were surprised to find that although he could not remember persons or events, he was able to remember maps and locations of things within his residence.

Now with this brain donated to the the Brain Observation project, it will be carefully imaged and dissected and digitally mapped  to determine the pathways involved in the brain's memory functions.  The brain computer controlled brain dissection is being shown live on line.  You can see it by clicking here.

Full post as published by Brain Injury News and Information on December 06, 2009 (boomark / email).