Cornell researchers discovered that pupil size during non-REM sleep indicates whether the brain is consolidating new or old memories. When the pupil contracts, new memories are reinforced; when it dilates, older memories are replayed and integrated.
This alternating pattern prevents “catastrophic forgetting,” where new memories overwrite old ones. The findings, observed in mice using brain electrodes and eye-tracking cameras, offer insights into human memory enhancement and could improve artificial neural network efficiency.
The study highlights a previously unknown sleep micro-structure, opening pathways for non-invasive research on memory disorders and cognitive training.
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