What If Every Cell Has a Memory? From Cells to Consciousness | Prof. Nikolay Kukushkin

Memory is more than just a function of neurons; non-neuronal cells can “remember” too. In this episode, we welcome Prof. Nikolay Kukushkin, Clinical Associate Professor of Life Science and research fellow at the Center for Neural Science, NYU, to discuss the fascinating science of memory. We explore how neurons and other cells store information and abstract ideas, why scientists study sea slugs to uncover the mechanisms of learning and memory, and the potential implications of cellular memory for mental health, learning, and cancer treatment. We also discuss the new upcoming book by Prof. Kukushkin called “One Hand Clapping - Unraveling the Mystery of the Human Mind”.

This episode provides in-depth insights for anyone curious about neuroscience, memory, and consciousness, revealing the remarkable ways our cells contribute to how information is stored, processed, and retained.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 In this episode of Neuroscience and Beyond
00:00:29 Introduction
00:01:58 Prof. Kukushkin’s Journey: From Biochemistry to Neuroscience
00:04:30 What Is Cellular Memory?
00:07:32 How do Neuroscientists Study Memory?
00:13:29 Massed vs. Spaced Effect in Learning and Memory
00:17:15 Where Is Memory Stored?
00:20:09 Neuronal Memory vs. Non-Neuronal Memory
00:24:32 How Neurons Store Abstract Information and Ideas
00:30:39 Can Animals Experience Memory Like Humans?
00:32:41 Sea Slugs, Consciousness, and Evolutionary Perspectives
00:38:53 Can Cancer Cells Remember Chemotherapy Treatment?
00:42:36 Cellular Memory and Mental Health Research
00:48:09 Writing One Hand Clapping: Science and Storytelling
00:55:34 Motivation Behind Writing a Book
01:02:23 Theories of Consciousness
01:09:21 Do We Have the Technology to Study Consciousness?
01:12:49 Psychedelics, Brain Research, and Conscious Experience
01:15:57 Final Insights on Memory and the Human Mind

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#neuroscience #Memory #CellularMemory #BrainScience #Learning #HumanCognition #Neurons #SeaSlugs #MentalHealth #SciencePodcast #OneHandClapping

Supported by the International Max Planck Research School for Neurosciences in #Göttingen, the European Neuroscience Institute, Cluster of Excellence Multiscale Bioimaging, as well as SFB1286.

Neuroscience and Beyond team:
Svilen Georgiev
Kristina Jevdokimenko
Ahsen Konaç Sayıcı
Laura van Agen
Music contributors: Steffen Pöschel (Ilanoor)