Elucidating the mechanisms of fast learning

2023 Fiscal Year Comments on the Screening Results

• Project/Area Number: 23H05478
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (S)
• Allocation Type: Single-year Grants
• Review Section: Broad Section G
• Research Institution: Institute of Physical and Chemical Research
• Principal Investigator: McHugh Thomas 国立研究開発法人理化学研究所, 脳神経科学研究センター, チームディレクター (50553731)
• Project Period (FY): 2023-04-12 – 2028-03-31

Summary of the Research Project

We can remember our experiences and use them as knowledge. Although great progress has been made in understanding the neural circuits involved in memory, much remains unknown about the neural circuits that regulate memory. This study aims to elucidate the neural basis of experiences and memories for new learning through behavioral analysis, neural activity recording, neuroimaging, and brain activity regulation using laboratory animals.

Scientific Significance and Expected Research Achievements

This study is highly novel and original, focusing on the neural basis for the change in learning speed depending on experiences and also for storing learned experiences as knowledge, and may help us to elucidate the process by which learned experiences can facilitate further learning. The results obtained from this study are also important for understanding the pathophysiology of dementia, which should have a ripple effect on society.