Remember there is a molecule that labels them

The discovery of the molecule That label the memories, can decide whether they are good or bad and associate them with positive or negative emotions. This is a neurotransmitter in the brain called neurotensin. The new molecule and its discovery were followed up by the Salk Institute in La Jolla, California. Thanks to this, it was possible to understand why people tend to hold negative emotions rather than positive ones. In addition, it opens new therapeutic avenues for conditions such as post-traumatic stress, depression and anxiety.

To arrive at this discovery, the scientists used the Crispr genetic engineering technique on mice. We speak of molecular DNA scissors useful in eliminating the gene for neurotensin through selection. Mice without the neurotransmitter could not map emotions positive for memories. On the other hand, they were fine with naming the negative.

The results prove that the brain is naturally prone to the feeling of fear. For scientists, it indicates an evolutionary perspective capable of eliminating very dangerous contexts. In other experiments, the research team showed that high levels of neurotensin provide an input for learning. In addition, they reduce the tendency to associate stimuli with negative emotions.

Essentially, we have gained control over the basic biological process by which we can remember whether something is good or bad. This is something that is fundamental to our life experience and the idea that it can come down to a single molecule is incredibly exciting.

Kay Tye, one of the study’s authors