Memory and DNA.

A model is presented for the storage of long-term memory. In our model consolidation takes place by specific DNA sequences. These DNA sequences are obtained by the recombination of DNA in a similar way to that during meiosis and the production of immunological antibodies. DNA has the potential of the production of large numbers of specific DNA sequences. These sequences can be attached to images of neural networks. The following considerations lead to the theory: (1)Most of the DNA is not used: approximately 3% of our DNA is used. (2)There are no cell divisions in the brain after adulthood is reached. Structural DNA arrangements will not be altered nor disrupted as a consequence of cell division and mitosis. (3)Chromosomal pairing is demonstrated in the brain, which could indicate the exchange of DNA. In addition, in our first survey experiments we found a positive reaction of components of the synaptonemal complex (SC) in the nuclei of brain cells. The SC is highly meiosis specific and plays a major role in genetic recombination. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.