In a groundbreaking discovery, UCLA researchers have uncovered a new type of memory state known as spontaneous persistent inactivity (SPI). This novel memory state, which consumes minimal energy, has the potential to significantly increase memory capacity while reducing metabolic energy cost by half. The research, published in the journal Nature Communications, could provide insights into memory disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and mild cognitive impairment.
The novel memory state of spontaneous persistent inactivity (SPI) has the potential to significantly increase memory capacity while reducing metabolic energy cost by half. This state, where the entorhinal cortex remains inactive even when the neocortex is active, requires minimal energy. The researchers believe that this new memory state could play a crucial role in understanding memory disorders and developing early diagnostic tools.