Memory isn’t just a brain thing. A new study from New York University reveals that everyday human cells outside the brain can learn and store information too. These cells respond to signals similar to how our brain cells do, unlocking fascinating insights about memory’s reach in our bodies.
Researchers found that when cells receive signals mimicking learning patterns, they react in much the same way neurons do. Interestingly, their response is stronger when these signals are spaced out over time. “This discovery suggests that learning might be a fundamental characteristic of all living cells,” says Nikolay V. Kukushkin, the study’s lead author.
The concept behind this is known as the spacing effect. This idea, first introduced by psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus, explains how we memorize better when we learn in intervals rather than cramming. Researchers tested this by using two types of human cells: one from nerve tissue and one from kidney tissue. The kidney cells have no function in the nervous system yet still displayed memory-like behavior.
During the experiment, these cells were given short bursts of chemical signals. Some received signals all at once, while others had them spaced out. The spaced signals led to a brighter and longer-lasting response. This demonstrates the memory gene in the cells remaining active for hours, proving that the timing of stimulation matters greatly.
In one instance, cells exposed to four spaced signals showed a 2.8-fold stronger activation of a memory gene compared to those receiving a single continuous signal. Essentially, the cells detected a pattern based on the timing of the signals. Kukushkin notes, “This strongly suggests that memory isn’t unique to brain cells; it’s an essential function shared by all cells.”
What does this mean for us? It implies that memory could exist without a brain. Instead, it may be a universal process allowing cells to store information about their environment. For instance, consider how the pancreas remembers past meals to regulate blood sugar levels. This finding could ultimately influence how we approach medicine and nutrition. If cells remember past exposures to drugs or nutrients, the timing of these interactions might be crucial. For example, the order and gaps between nutrients could impact how we digest food, possibly altering fat storage.
Even non-neural cells can recognize and respond to patterns in their environment. While your kidney cells won’t recall your favorite song, they do register information and may react differently next time. “Non-neural cells are much smarter than we think,” Kukushkin concludes.
This groundbreaking research was published in Nature Communications, expanding our understanding of memory beyond the brain and opening new paths in medical science.
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