The cellular bases of learning and memory , learning and memory - It is believed that neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer's and Parkinson’s, result from cell death; however, it is unknown how or why cell death occurs. One potential cause are a family of proteins called molecular motors, that fail to function in the transportation of replacement components and nutrients. The cellular bases of learning and memory , Distinguished Professor of Neuroscience and Professor of Biology at Syracuse University, is interested in the cellular basis of learning and memory. By studying the way in which information is stored in the brain -- particularly the role of molecular motors -- The cellular bases of learning and memory , is working to understand the molecular mechanisms responsible for neurodegeneration. Through the understanding of such mechanisms, Dr. Langford and his team hope to lead to the discovery of new drug targets that could be useful in preventing neurodegenerative disease as well as candidiasis. Thus, his work is inspired by the hope that someday it may be possible to unravel the dynamic changes of the synapse in order to treat patients with memory loss or other symptoms associated with neurodegenerative diseases.
With close collaborations with colleagues in Germany, at the Marine Biological Laboratory, and at the University of California, San Francisco, Dr. Langford and his team are making advances in our current understanding of how neurodegenerative diseases work at a molecular level. In addition to the quality of his research, It also has dedicated his professional career to promoting diversity in the sciences. He actively supports and mentors underrepresented minority students in his laboratory and works on programs that increase opportunity for aspiring researchers, especially for those underrepresented in the biomedical sciences.
Candidiasis: Candida albicans is a yeast that exists in the environment all the time but can be pathogenic. In certain conditions, if there is a defect in the immune system, the pathogen can infect an individual and cause major damage and potential death to the individual. Dr. Langford has found that the yeast produces virulence factors which then affect the cytoskeleton and molecular motors leading to host cell death and proliferation of the pathogens. Dr. Langford and his team hope that through understanding this mechanism, they can prevent infection and find potential drug targets for patients with defects in their immune system. Therefore, his research may be an important movement towards effective drug therapies for patients with HIV, those on drugs that suppress the immune system, or even patients wearing IV devices that become loci of infection.
The cellular bases of learning and memory , Seeing a fly on the wall, hearing a sound in the background, or smelling coffee are all stored briefly in short-term memory, but unless there are meaningful connections to other parts of your brain, those sensory experiences will fade and be lost. The cellular bases of learning and memory, On the other hand, accidentally pounding your thumb with a hammer or listening to a rich music piece will tend to form a more permanent impression.
The cellular bases of learning and memory , Neurons (long nerve cells that communicate within your body) send signals between your body and your brain across junction points called synapses, which act like phone connections, controlling the flow of information. Your body is constantly generating new sensory signals, like feeling a breeze, overhearing a conversation, or smelling food cooking. Most are ignored, experienced but then replaced immediately. Your reactions to your senses are controlled by certain chemicals, called neurotransmitters and neurohormones.
Neurotransmitter
Neurotransmitters are like the electronic connections in your telephone. They control whether a signal travels from one neuron to the next. There are many kinds of neurotransmitters in your body. For example, some amino acids (building blocks for constructing proteins in your body), such as glutamate, glycine, and aspartate, act as neurotransmitters, either helping or hindering the transmission of information across synapses.
The cellular bases of learning and memory , Sometimes, these chemicals also perform the function of neurohormones, controlling organs all over your body. They can affect the way you feel and the way you behave. Biogenic amines, such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine, are well-known for the effects they have on your system, making you feel good after a turkey dinner or sneeze after you breathe an allergen. An extremely important neurotransmitter in your body is acetylcholine, which helps control important muscles responses, like your breathing and heartbeat, and also helps your brain form your memory and thought structures.
The Finger-Burning Incident
So, what does all of this have to do with your memories and learning experiences? Neurons and their associated control chemicals tend to run the show. The cellular bases of learning and memory , For example, suppose you burn your finger on the stove. If it weren't for your neural responses, you wouldn't even know your finger was burning! Your nervous system, being the alert system that it is, immediately goes to work. Two different kinds of nerve communication lines begin to send signals to your brain.