Memory defines who we are and how we interact with the world, which is why age-related impairments in memory are so devastating. One reason for age-related memory failure is a disruption in the circadian rhythm, which synchronizes the brain to the external time of day. Our research shows that the old brain may exist in a persistent “nighttime state” that limits memory formation based on the time of day and correcting this may improve both memory and circadian rhythms in old age.
Presenter: Janine Kwapis | Biology