Electrical waves in the brain combine memories in different lobes

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego have discovered that high-frequency rhythmic electrical bursts in the brain transform information processed in different lobes into a single memory.

Examination of the Memory Process

Scientists investigated how, when encountering a familiar face, the name, location, and memories—despite being processed in separate lobes of the brain—are converted into a seamless single memory.

Electrode Recording Method

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego recorded the electrical activity of 1,373 neurons via electrodes placed in the brains of 35 patients undergoing treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy.

High-Frequency Ripples

During memory tests, high-frequency rhythmic electrical bursts called ripples, reaching 90 vibrations per second and lasting for only a tenth of a second, were tracked.

Simultaneous Triggering

The study found that these ripples were triggered simultaneously at the farthest points of the brain and in both hemispheres.

Signal Transmission of Neurons

It was determined that once the common rhythm was captured, the probability of neurons located up to 22 centimeters apart transmitting signals simultaneously increased by 30 to 49 percent.

Acting Like a Joint Team

Evaluating the synchronized operation of cells in different regions, lead author of the study Dr. Ilya Verzhbinsky stated that the rhythmic harmony opens an instantaneous line between the most distant points, allowing cells to act like a joint team.

Structure Independent of a Command Center

Researchers conveyed that the rhythmic connection between different parts of the brain is not tied to a single command center, likening it to people in a hall applauding at the same time.

Future Research

Stating that the frequency of simultaneous signals increases as the memory load grows, scientists will continue to examine the functioning of this mechanism in healthy brains and utilize it in treatments.