Why the brain forgets one thing and remembers another – scientists answer

German researchers have discovered that the hippocampus periodically enters states of heightened readiness for memory formation, determined by the level of attention. Experiments on mice showed that during such moments, the brain becomes more plastic, and even minor stimulation can alter the functioning of neural networks.

Researchers from Germany have found that the effectiveness of forming new memories is determined not only by the importance of an event but also by the state of the brain at a specific moment. The hippocampus periodically transitions into brief states of heightened readiness for memory formation. Experiments on mice showed that when attention increases, the activity of 'place cells'—neurons responsible for spatial memory—also increases. Pupil dilation and theta rhythms serve as indicators of these states. During periods of heightened susceptibility, the brain becomes more plastic, and artificial stimulation of individual neurons can turn them into 'place cells.' This explains why the brain remembers some information and forgets other.