OIST Hub Radio Ep.3 Prof. Kazumasa Tanaka

In this episode of OIST Hub Radio, we welcome OIST Associate Professor Kazumasa Tanaka to discuss new insights into how memories are stored in the brain.

By examining the brains of mice placed into an artificially induced hibernation-like state, the research team uncovered a new mechanism underlying long-term memory.

Until now, long-term memories have generally been thought to be maintained through the strengthening of connections between neurons, known as synapses.

Using the unique approach of artificial hibernation, this study revealed new insights into the brain structures that support long-term memory.

The research findings were published in the scientific journal Science. Press release: https://www.oist.jp/news-center/news/2026/8/13/artificial-hibernation-reveals-secrets-long-term-memory

Why do some memories last for a long time? What can artificial hibernation reveal about what happens inside the brain? In this episode, Prof. Tanaka explains the background of the research, the key findings, and what this discovery could mean for our understanding of memory.