Changing the way you learn

Improving Memory

understanding mech of LTP enables researchers to understand what could impair/improve memory.
1. LTP depends on production of proteins and enhancing production of these proteins enhances memory in rodents
2. drugs that inhibit production weakens memory, even if drugs are days after training
  1. pharmaceutical companies are investigating drugs that might improve learning by enhancing LTP
moderate doses of stimulant drugs enhance learning by increasing arousal
1. caffeine and ritalin
2. Alzheimers patients take drugs to facilitate acetylcholine by blocking enzyme that degrades it
  1. other drugs for memory improvement have more doubtful effects
researchers use biotechnological methods found ways to alter gene expression in mice to enhance memory
1. so far the benefits come with a cost
  1. mice with increased expression of gene enhancing NMDA receptors show faster learning but chronic pain
studying better seems like the best way to improve memory
1. you remember more if something engages your curiosity
  1. captivity increases in several brain areas while waiting for answer, espesh if rate of curiosity is high
    1. activity also increases in other areas when hearing correct answer, if your guess had been wrong

Improving Memory

	Created by n.c.wetmore over 11 years ago