monkeymagic7: Scientists Hijack Mouse Neurons to Take Control

Scientists Hijack Mouse Neurons to Take Control

http://www.popsci.com/science/article/2012-03/scientists-hijack-mouse-neurons-control-and-manipulate-memories

In a recent study, scientists were involved in a quite interesting experience with the brains of typical mice. The article linked above goes in depth about the thinking of scientists and their implications about working with the brains of mice.

http://www.popsci.com/science/article/2012-03/scientists-hijack-mouse-neurons-control-and-manipulate-memories This is the source for the first picture below.

To start off with, this story is about scientists who had hijacked the memories of lab mice. Specifically, these are neuroscientists who were attached to the aspect of mental health. Also a part of this study was a group of researchers from Scripps Research Institute, which was responsible for engineering mice in order to benefit the purpose of the labs. You may be pondering why this information is of such significance and the truth is there is a lot of useful data which can be analyzed for a cause. This unique study was made a news story because a lot was learned through the experience. Basically, by "hijacking" the memories of lab mice, scientists were able to control mice and force them to react to their surroundings at abnormal times. In this process, memories were taken away, but in return, confusing and altered memories were formed inside the minds of mice. Originally, mice were given a special memory receptor which was programmed inside their neurons. The purpose of this mini mechanism was for it to be activated when the mouse was in a state of fear. In this manner, mice were given particular drugs which triggered the activation of the receptor. Therefore, when the mouse was not in an area where it was fearful, its neurons were fired up, causing the mouse to change into a fearful state. For example, a mouse was tested inside a special cage for any sign of fear. As a result, the mouse was shocked and the receptor was signaled. Next, the mouse was given the drug and was put inside an ordinary cage. The neurons in the mouse triggered for the mouse to appear shocked. In other words, scientists were able to recreate confusing memories of fear when a mouse was not scared in reality. All of the labs correlated to this study took place at the

http://www.popsci.com/science/article/2011-07/some-
mice-have-become-immune-poison-through-natural-highly unusual-evolution

Scripps Research Institute in California. This study was officially published on Friday, March 24, but effort was put into establishing this study weeks earlier. This study took place to benefit human health, which is of course a great cause. Basically, many people on the planet are diagnosed with Schrizophrenia or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Mouse Trap (used in lab procedure)

http://img.ecplaza.com/my/haier/14.jpg These diseases have to do with the breakdown of thought processes, anxiety, and poor emotional responses. Schrizophrenia, in particular, makes it hard for people to tell between real and unreal experiences. By performing these labs with mice, scientists are looking to eventually pave a way for false memory or real memory manipulation within those people who are currently suffering. By hijacking the memories of lab mice and creating altered memories in their minds, scientists concluded that the reactions of mice could be similar to those of humans. Therefore, the only reason why this study occurred was because scientists wanted to find a related drug that could potentially shut down responses of false fears within the corresponding neurons in patients. If this drug was to work, patients could live healthier lives.

After reading this article, my opinion is that the study is unique and beneficial to humans. The concept developed through the labs can really change how Schrizophrenia is treated and can make people's lives easier. Also, the process is not affecting any humans in a negative way so mankind should be thankful. First of all, the study of creating the memory of fear in an area of no shock is totally unbelievable. Not only is it unbelievable, but it is also unique because humans are not being used for trials in labs. Instead, scientists found a different way to create and conduct fear in an animal, such as a mouse. The fact that mice are being used for the purpose of labs brings research to a whole new level. On the other hand, this study is beneficial to humans because diseases like Schrizophrenia and Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder can be possibly cured or aided. After the labs are done, it is possible that companies will manafacture a new drug that will shut down fear in some neurons of humans . I am glad that some of those people out there in the world who are currently suffering from these diseases have a chance for a more healthy life. In addition, I believe that this study is "for our own good" because honestly, humans are not being affected in any way. The idea of humans being involved in labs is totally out of the picture in this study. Humans will neither get physically harmed, nor will they get mentally harmed. If anything is gained from the study, it would be a cure for the diseases involving fear. Also, if anyone is to get hurt in labs, it would be a tested mouse and I believe that scientists are well-prepared to prevent events like this. Not to be inconsiderate of mice, but I care about the health of humans way more. All in all, this study is being analyzed in an interesting way, it influences no harm towards humans, and I have complete faith in it as it trys to prove cures for disorders related to fear.