Scientists have discovered a new link between memories and metabolism in the brain. Led by Prof. Tomás Ryan from Trinity College Dublin, researchers found that cold experiences can form lasting memories, which then control our body’s thermoregulation – the ability to regulate its internal temperature.
The study used mice as test subjects, training them to associate certain visual cues with cold temperatures. When the mice were presented with these cues in a cold environment, they increased their metabolism to generate heat. Conversely, when the cues were displayed at room temperature, the mice failed to respond.
The researchers then investigated how this was happening in the brain. They used activity-dependent gene labeling to genetically identify the cells coding for cold memories in the hippocampus region of the mouse brain. These cells, known as engrams, played a crucial role in controlling thermoregulation.
When the engram cells were artificially stimulated using optogenetics, the mice’s metabolism increased to generate heat. Inhibiting these cells prevented the mice from responding to cold cues.
The study has significant implications for treating various disorders, such as obesity and cancer, which often involve disruptions in thermoregulation and metabolism. The researchers believe that manipulating cold memories could provide novel avenues for altering metabolism for therapeutic purposes.
“This discovery opens doors for further research into the embodied nature of the mind,” said Prof. Ryan. “Understanding how representations of cold experiences affect broader brain functions such as emotion, decision-making, and social behavior will be crucial.”
The study’s findings also highlight the importance of inter-disciplinary collaboration in science. Prof. Tomás Ryan praised the synergy between his team and Prof. Lydia Lynch, who contributed to the research from Princeton University.
Their work has been published in the journal Nature and can be accessed at: www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08902-6.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-cold-scientists-memories-metabolism.html