Chapter 9
Summary
This chapter focuses on Eric Kandel’s research with memory. The chapter begins with the story of Henry who had severe epilepsy. Thinking he knew how to fix the problem, a doctor, Dr. Scoville, removed Henry’s hippocampus. After the surgery Henry lost the ability to form memories.
Inspired by Henry’s tragic story, Kandel set out to learn about neurons through the study of sea slugs. He discovered that the neurons grew stronger when an electrochemical signal reinforced the relationship. He also discovered CREB and the CREB repressor. CREB is a molecule in the brain that “switches on” the genes that produce the proteins that make memories. Kandel has a company called Memory Pharmaceuticals where he is developing pills that will enhance CREB.
Discussion
This was yet another interesting chapter. I really enjoy reading this book. I’m not sure I like the idea of making pills to enhance CREB. I can see them easily being abused. I just get a bad feeling hearing about something that messes with the brain in this way, making our brain remember better (like steroids for the brain) or making us forget things all together.
No comments:
Post a Comment