Junk DNA can erase a person's scary memories

Scientists in an international research project discovered a new gene: they studied how the genome reacts

to traumatic experiences.

Until recently, scientists thought thatmost of our genes are made up of junk DNA that doesn't really do anything. But when researchers began to study these regions, they realized that most of the genome was active and transcribed. 

Timothy Brady, assistant professor at the Queensland Brain Institute

The authors used a powerful new sequencing approach and identified 433 long non-coding RNAs. They were located in practically unexplored regions of the human genome.

Researchers have found a new gene, ADRAM, that acts as a scaffold for molecules inside the cell and helps coordinate the formation of negative memories associated with fear. 

Previously, scientists have not done research to understand how these genes work and how they can affect brain function in the context of learning and memory.

Our results show that longnon-coding RNAs create a bridge that connects dynamic environmental cues to the mechanisms that control how our brains respond to fear. With this, we can create tools that will selectively target long non-coding RNAs in the brain that directly alter memory. This will help develop new therapies for PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) and phobias.

Timothy Brady, Associate Professor at the Queensland Brain Institute

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