While these findings significantly advance understanding of memory maintenance, some scientists remain cautious, noting that synaptic strengthening is just one model among many for how memories are stored.

PKMζ was identified in the 1990s as a critical molecule for synaptic strengthening related to memory, with experiments demonstrating that blocking it could erase memories in animals.

Interestingly, research has shown that mice lacking PKMζ can still form memories, prompting scientists to explore backup mechanisms and the roles of other molecules.

Recent studies have shown that the proteins KIBRA and PKMζ form a stable complex at synapses, which is essential for both forming and maintaining long-term memories.

This persistent bond between PKMζ and KIBRA acts as a molecular anchor, helping to preserve memories over time despite molecular degradation, addressing a question posed by Francis Crick about memory longevity.

The interaction between KIBRA and PKMζ not only facilitates memory formation but also maintains memories by guiding PKMζ to specific synapses, effectively acting as a synaptic tag.

Neuroscientist Todd Sacktor, inspired by childhood memories, investigates how memories persist at the molecular level, even as biological molecules turn over.