The universal brain code a genetic mechanism for memory

• Published in: Journal of the neurological sciences Vol. 429; p. 118073
• Main Author: Rosenberg, Roger N.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 15.10.2021
• Subjects: Connectome; Epigenomics; Genetic code; Information processing; Memory; Genetic code; Epigenomics; Connectome; Memory; Information processing
• ISSN: 0022-510X; 1878-5883
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2021.118073

We do not have an understanding of the fundamental mechanism of how information is stored and retrieved by the brain. A Universal Brain Code utilized for these functions is proposed here. The basic tenent of the Code is that a memory engram is propagated and guided through the connectome by specific proteins/peptides embedded within the pre-synaptic neuronal membrane corresponding to information provided by afferent electrical currents to the pre-synaptic neuron. It is intended to provide a working approach to this central brain activity and begin the process of investigation based on these ideas which are new and unexplored. •Memory storage and retrieval is a multistep event in which the circuit codes information initially by electrical conductance.•Guidance of the information being transmitted by electrical events through the circuit is dependent upon specific protein/peptide synthesis induced by specific afferent electrical input into the presynaptic neuron.•A subset of proteins/peptides utilizing the genetic code inserted into the synaptic membrane of the pre-synaptic neuron directs the processing of information.•Single cell transcriptomic studies of neurons in memory circuits can verify the linkage between afferent electrical signals to the pre-synaptic neuron and the specific proteins/peptides synthesized.•Deciphering the Universal brain code will provide a deep understanding of how memory engrams are formed, retrieved, modified and solidified under normal conditions and changed in disease.