New study reveals biological causes of memory loss

A study has been conducted that sheds light on the biological processes underpinning age-related memory loss and cognitive deficits.

Yale University researchers have published a paper showing that the neural networks in the brains of middle-aged and elderly people have weaker connections and fire less effectively than young people's.

Neuron activity in the prefrontal cortex of this kind is essential for the preservation of working memory and executive functions such as multi-tasking, organisation and self-restraint.

It was also found that adjusting the neurochemical environment around the neurons caused this effect to be reversed to an extent, suggesting this may be a treatable condition.

Amy Arnsten, a professor of neurobiology and psychology at Yale, said: "Age-related cognitive deficits can have a serious impact on our lives in the Information Age, as people often need higher cognitive functions to meet even basic needs."

This comes after a University of Southern California team discovered a means of replicating the process of memory acquisition using an electronic system last month, a technique which could offer potential benefits in future if refined.