Memory is one of the most fascinating yet complex topics in neuroscience. Recently, researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) made an important discovery, demonstrating the crucial role of dendritic plasticity in memory integration. Dendritic plasticity refers to the ability of dendrites—branched extensions of neurons—to structurally and functionally adapt in response to new information and experiences. This plasticity enables dendrites to form new synaptic connections or strengthen and weaken existing ones, allowing the brain to effectively integrate and consolidate memories.
To investigate this process, the researchers employed advanced technologies, including miniature microscopes, which allowed them to observe the activity of individual neurons in real-time. They monitored calcium concentration changes—a key indicator of neuronal activity—in the retrosplenial cortex (RSC), a brain region responsible for spatial and contextual memory. The experiments involved observing mice exposed to different environments at short intervals (5 hours) and longer intervals (7 days). The results showed that memories formed close together in time were represented by overlapping neuronal ensembles.
Further experiments using highly precise two-photon imaging allowed detailed analysis of dendrites in layer V neurons of the RSC. The researchers observed that the same dendritic segments were reactivated when mice explored new environments within a few hours, but such reactivations did not occur when the interval was several days. This confirmed that local dendritic plasticity facilitates the integration of temporally close memories at the neuronal level.
To further confirm the role of dendrites in memory linking, the team employed advanced genetic techniques, including the TetTag system and a dendrite-targeting element (DTE mRNA Arc). This approach allowed selective manipulation of dendritic activity. The experiments clearly demonstrated that manipulating dendritic activity directly affected the mice’s ability to integrate related memories.
These findings indicate that neurons have a far more sophisticated role than previously thought. Dendrites are not merely passive information conduits—they actively process and integrate information independently.
Improved understanding of dendritic plasticity could lead to the development of new therapies for memory disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Furthermore, insights into these mechanisms may also enhance the design of artificial intelligence systems, making them more effective and closely aligned with the operational principles of the human brain.
Source: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41593-025-01876-8
