Brain stimulation delivered at the right time can improve the ability to form memories

A research study showed that electrical brain stimulation, delivered at a time when a memory was being formed AND the formation was predicted to be poor, would lead to an improvement in memory formation. Conversely, if the stimulation was delivered during a period of effective memory formation, it would negatively impact it.

To do this research, the team used machine learning applied to electrical signals measured throughout the brain to properly identify states of strong and poor memory formation.

The technology tested here could one day be applied to patients with Alzheimers and dementia to help with improved memory formation.

Summary here. Full research here.

Originally published at yourdailyscience.com on April 24, 2017.