This basic question of how babies remember has long been a vexing one for scientists. Mostly this is because of the challenges in studying their still-developing brains. Researchers have turned to functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) to peer into the infant brain, seeking answers to how memory begins to take shape. Currently, scientists explore the brain with fMRI, a revolutionary technology that creates stunningly vivid pictures of the brain. This advanced technology allows them to venture into the hippocampus, the area in the brain that is integral to adult memory. Yet, researching this phenomenon with infants introduces a whole new host of complications.
Unlocking the Secrets of Baby Memories
One of the primary hurdles in using fMRI for baby brain studies is the requirement for subjects to remain still during scans. The second, and perhaps most daunting aspect, is all infants—even the most fussy of infants! For researchers such as Nick Turk-Browne and his team, that meant overcoming many challenges. They have spent almost the last 10 years developing methods for doing fMRI studies on infants.
"We have them bring comfort items like a pacifier or a blanket or a toy," explained Turk-Browne.
These approaches are central to collecting accurate data. They enable us to take pictures of brain activity while infants look at simple faces.
"I've given babies a bottle during these scans," Turk-Browne added, highlighting the lengths to which researchers go to ensure infants are comfortable and can participate in the study.
The fMRI Breakthrough
The fMRI machine produces gorgeous images of the baby’s brain. It’s a research study that traces the development of the hippocampus as the infant scans through these stunning images. This method has allowed scientists to study how memories start developing long before babies are able to express their ideas in words.
"It's the only way to be able to ask what's going on in the infant's mind despite not being able to ask them questions," Turk-Browne stated.
By tracking brain activity, researchers can make conclusions about the underlying memory activity. The research has shown that starting at around 12 months, increased activity in the hippocampus during image exposure correlates with a higher likelihood of the baby remembering that image later.
"You can look at their brain and their brain has the answers," said Turk-Browne, emphasizing the potential of fMRI in uncovering the mysteries of infant memory.
Implications of Early Memory Formation
As Children’s National’s pioneering research has shown, these early experiences can have significant effects on cognitive development and behavior. Though we can all recall memories from our later childhood, infancy is a largely untouched tabula rasa.
"But all of us lack memories from our infancy," remarked Tristan Yates.
These early years, though, are extremely important in teaching necessary skills and recognizing important people in a baby’s life.
"That's the time when we learn who our parents are, that's when we learn language, that's when we learn how to walk," Yates continued.
Researching infant memory formation through fMRI allows for glimpses into previously hazy developmental milestones. It’s amazing to watch how an early start can influence a successful adult life!
