Harold MacGillavry awarded Vici grant

Shaping our memories: resolving the nanoscale organization of neuronal synapses in memory circuits

“How does the brain form and store memories for hours, days or even a lifetime? I am very excited that with this Vici project we can study the nanoscale molecular processes that lead to the lasting imprinting of memories in the brain.” – Harold MacGillavry

Our memories shape who we are. However, we still do not fully understand how memories are stored in our brain. The researchers will use advanced microscopy techniques to uncover the structure of the connections between nerve cells, synapses. They will investigate how molecular changes in synapses underlie the formation of new memories. This research will yield valuable insights into how our memory works and could contribute to finding new ways to alleviate conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. 

(Read more about awarded Vici grant laureates from the UU).