The Role of Cells in Encoding and Storing Information: A Narrative Review of Cellular Memory.

Summary

Memory involves encoding, storing, and retrieving information, and recent research suggests it extends beyond the brain to include body-based and cellular mechanisms. Synaptic changes in the hippocampus are crucial for memory consolidation, but somatic memory shows how sensory and traumatic experiences are stored implicitly. Studies indicate that memories can be encoded and stored in cells and may be transferred between individuals through organ transplantation. Observations in organisms without nervous systems, such as bacteria, fungi, and plants, expand traditional memory concepts. This review compiles findings across disciplines to build a framework explaining cellular processes in memory retention and transfer, though critical gaps remain in understanding how cellular memory interfaces with neural systems.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Memory, a fundamental aspect of human cognition and consciousness, is multifaceted and extends beyond traditional conceptualizations of mental recall. This review article explores memory through various lenses, including brain-based, body-based, and cellular mechanisms. At its core, memory involves the encoding, storage, and retrieval of information. Advances in neuroscience reveal that synaptic changes and molecular modifications, particularly in the hippocampus, are crucial for memory consolidation. Additionally, body memory, or somatic memory, highlights how sensory experiences and traumatic events are stored and influence behavior, underscoring the role of implicit memory. Multiple studies have demonstrated that memories can be encoded and stored in cells. Evidence suggests that these memories can then be transferred between individuals through organ transplantation. Additionally, observations in organisms that lack a nervous system, such as bacteria, fungi, and plants, expand traditional memory concepts. This review highlights and compiles novel research from the last few decades that explores information encoding and storage at a cellular level across a wide variety of disciplines. Our aim is to integrate these findings into a cohesive framework that helps explain the role of cellular processes in memory retention and transfer. By compiling research across diverse fields, this review aims to establish a foundation for future investigation into the physiological and psychological significance of cellular memory. Despite substantial progress, critical gaps persist in our understanding of how cellular memory interfaces with neural memory systems and the precise pathways through which information is encoded, stored, retrieved, and transferred at the cellular level. There has been a noticeable lack of research focused on cellular memory, and more rigorous investigations are needed to uncover how cells participate in memory and the extent to which these processes influence human behavior and cognition.