A groundbreaking study from New York University shows that cells outside the brain may also have memory-storage capabilities, expanding our understanding of memory beyond brain cells.

Published in Nature Communications, the research was led by NYU scientist Nikolay V. Kukushkin, who explained, “Our study shows that other cells in the body can also learn and form memories.”

It is generally believed that only brain cells are involved in learning and memory, but the research team wanted to see whether cells in other parts of the body might work in a similar way. To test this, they used a method called spaced repetition, which shows that information sticks better when it’s reviewed in short, spaced-out sessions rather than all at once.

The researchers examined two types of non-brain cells (one from neural tissue and one from kidney tissue), subjecting them to different patterns of chemical signals, mimicking how neurotransmitters are released during brain activity.

Scientists discovered that some cells in the body, such as nerve and kidney tissues, appear to “remember” in a way similar to brain cells.

Using a special luminous marker, the researchers could see when these cells responded to signals given at intervals such as learning intervals.

This response was stronger than when the signals were arriving continuously, which showed that these cells could retain information from closely spaced signals at a similar rate as brain cells.

This response supports the idea that interval memory retention may be an intrinsic feature of all cells.

“This discovery opens up new avenues for memory research and the potential treatment of memory disorders,” Kukushkin said.

He said it could change the way we consider the role of memory in the entire body. For example, understanding cellular memory could impact approaches to metabolic health or cancer treatment, given that cells throughout the body appear capable of retaining information from repeated patterns.