Implant for the hippocampus
Scientists have successfully tested a memory prosthesis
Alexey Yevglevsky, Naked Science
Memory improvement is a promising direction of modern neurophysiology. Last month, American researchers tested a brain implant that enhanced the ability to memorize words by an average of 15 percent. The work, presented by scientists from the University of Southern California and Wake Forest University Medical Center, helped patients with neurodegenerative diseases increase the effectiveness of episodic memory by 37 percent.
A new study focused on short-term memory, as it is more likely to suffer from Alzheimer's disease, stroke and head injuries. Doctors selected volunteers who took part in brain mapping using electrodes that were placed in different departments to identify problem areas. In order to influence the hippocampal neurons responsible for episodic memory, the specialists used an electronic system based on a nonlinear mathematical model of MIMO – multithreading data transmission.
First, the researchers recorded neural "codes" during the initial exercise. Patients were shown one color and after a while were asked to choose it from the ones offered on the screen. The scientists analyzed data from the electrodes of those who gave the correct answers, and synthesized a code based on MIMO for the correct operation of memory. This code was reproduced during repeated tests, which revealed a 37 percent improvement in episodic memory.
In the second test, participants were shown several photos, and after a few minutes they were asked to point them out among four or five other images. Then the code of correct answers was recorded again. After 75 minutes, the procedure was repeated using this code – the result improved by 35 percent.
The head of the study, Robert Hampson, spoke in more detail about the results: "We have shown that we can support and improve the abilities of patients themselves. Even when a person's memory is impaired, it is possible to find models of correct operation and separate them from erroneous ones. We will help people use only the right templates to form new memories. Thus, we will stimulate innate abilities, and not replace them. In the future, we hope to help patients retain already acquired memories."
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