Comment What they really did... (Score 1) 191
Actually, they only increased the amount of LTP by tinkering with the NMDA receptor (which btw is also responsible for neuron necrosis). The mice did not get 'smarter' but simply performed tasks better. They did not learn/recall better--these are much harder tests to do and involve testing progressively better tasks.
The problem is that simply because you have increased LTP (long term potentiation) this does not necessarily correlate to learning.
The results these scientists got could actually be done by giving the mice caffiene before the tests. Or any amphetine for that matter.
Quite disappointing since I was realy rooting for pinky.
The problem is that simply because you have increased LTP (long term potentiation) this does not necessarily correlate to learning.
The results these scientists got could actually be done by giving the mice caffiene before the tests. Or any amphetine for that matter.
Quite disappointing since I was realy rooting for pinky.
