Our biceps and our brain cells may have more in common than previously thought.
New research led by the Lippincott-Schwartz Lab shows that a network of subcellular structures similar to those responsible for propagating molecular signals that make muscles contract are also responsible for transmitting signals in the brain that may facilitate learning and memory.
Einstein said that when he uses his brain, it is like he is using a muscle, and in that respect, there is some parallel here. The same machinery is operating in both cases but with different readouts.”
Jennifer Lippincott-Schwartz, Janelia Senior Group Leader
The first clue about the possible connection between brain and muscle cells came when Janelia scientists noticed something…