Scientists have found a link between genetics and the common
short-term memory loss. Everyone has memory lapses, but scientists found some
had lapses more often than others. Short term memory and action are mainly
controlled by the DRD2 gene. The gene directs action and if there is a mishap
then a memory lapse may occur. DRD2 comes in 2 forms, both with single letter
difference in their coding from each other. Scientists noticed that when taking
samples of 500 men and women’s saliva they found one-fourth had the Cytosine
variant, while the other three-fourths carried the Thymine variant. They asked
the subjects to keep a log of how often these lapses occur over a period of
time, and the results showed that those with the Thymine variant had a clear
lead in number of incidents. They found that the increased chance of memory
lapses found in the Thymine variant subjects followed suit with several other
known experiments and their findings. To read other causes of memory loss, go here.
I believe this article was solid in its foundation and
findings. The scientists mention that when comparing data results with other
experiments in the same field the findings matched to a great extent. I think
that when experiments have results this solid it makes for a great source for
further testing and progress in the field.
