Memory Molecule

Arunjana Das

The New York Times reported today about researchers in Brooklyn who have had success with the memory molecule, or what they call, the Speed-Dial molecule. In plainspeak, according to the NYT, it will soon be possible to edit memories in humans. They have conducted successful tests on mice.
 
The gist of the findings is that the PKMz molecule, which is responsible for actuation and sustenance of connections between neurons (synapses) can be enhanced or diminished in strength by injecting a molecule known as the ZIP molecule. The neuron connections are responsible for enhancing memory and learning capabilities. In children, during their formative years, these connections happen very fast. As we grow older, the ability to form new connections degenerates. One way of keeping this ability from diminishing might be to engage in significant intellectual activities, sort of like mental workouts which keep these connections alive and help in forming newer ones. 
 
Now, imagine being able to play with your ability of forming these connections. Certain memories associated with trauma or addictions can be controlled. Researchers are saying that in the future, this might help them find a cure for mental maladies such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease.  On the flip side though, the brain is the organ about which we know the least. Memories of past experiences help us create our defenses. Memories increase our emotional intelligence in innumerable ways that we can't even begin to understand. In that case, playing around with certain memories could prove to be disastrous, and most importantly, irreversible. It might end up as a lobotomy, albeit achieved by no actual removal of brain tissue.
 
There is also another side to the argument. The NYT quotes the researchers bringing up the question of the ethics of brain performance-enhancement. Enhancing memory would be the cranial equivalent of taking steroids.
 
As is the case with most of the controversial medical research, for instance stem-cell research, the memory-molecule will need some tough legislation of usage before it is deemed acceptable in the society.