Ovoid Cells

Ovoid Cells Latest News

Researchers have discovered a new type of neuron that plays a fundamental role in recognition memory and named “ovoid cells.”

About Ovoid Cells

• These cells, named for the distinct egg-like shape of their cell bodies, are present in relatively small numbers within the hippocampus of humans, mice, and other animals.
• These are highly specialized neurons which get activated each time when we encounter something new.
• It triggers a process that stores those objects in memory and allows us to recognize them months potentially even years later.
• They are quite distinct from other neurons at a cellular and functional level, and in terms of their neural circuitry.
• Significance: This discovery provides key insights into how memories form and could aid in the treatment of brain conditions related to object recognition, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and epilepsy.

What are Neurons?

• It is also known as a nerve cell, is a specialized cell in the nervous system that is responsible for transmitting information through electrical and chemical signals.
• Neurons are the basic building blocks of the nervous system and play a crucial role in processing and transmitting information within the body.

Ovoid Cells FAQs

Q1: What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Ans: It is a brain condition that causes a progressive decline in memory, thinking, learning, and organizing skills.

Q2: What is the main function of the hippocampus?

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Ans: Its largest job is to hold short-term memories and transfer them to long-term storage in our brains. 

Q3: Where is the location of the hippocampus?

Ans: It is located in the inner (medial) region of the temporal lobe

Source: DD News