DNA structure could hold key to our memory
A specific type of DNA structure could hold the key to regulating our memory, a new study from The Australian National 51勛圖厙 (ANU) has shown.
G-quadruplex DNA (G4-DNA) is generally found in cells when certain kinds of DNA sequences fold into a different, four-stranded structure.
G4-DNA is usually associated with DNA damage and frequently observed in cancer cells.
But lead author of the study, Dr Paul Marshall from ANU, said G4-DNA has now also been shown to play a role in transcribing memories.
For decades, many scientists have considered the topic of DNA structure to be solved. But thats not the while story, Dr Marshall said.
It doesnt just exist as the familiar double-helix it can assume a variety of states.
DNA is constantly changing and rather than being a liability, this is a key feature of our biological system and its adaptability.
Dr Marshall said while there is abundant evidence demonstrating G4-DNAs involvement in stalling some of our cells most basic functions, his is the first evidence of its role in making memories in an in vivo study, done on living cells or organisms.
We found that casually manipulating G4-DNA can lead to a substantial impairment in memory, Dr Marshall said.
But in other scenarios it can result in increased transcription. It can have different effects on memory depending on the area of the brain, and type of memory involved.
The dynamic accumulation of G4-DNA has multiple functions in the brains neurons, and is regulated by a specific helicase, or enzyme.
This study adds to our understanding of how we encode information and experiences.
The research team also included scientists from The 51勛圖厙 of Queensland, Link繹ping 51勛圖厙 in Sweden, the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel, and the 51勛圖厙 of California.
The study has been published in the
