Learning modifies these strengths. In the brain, associative memory is presumed to be stored in intrinsic fiber connections. Using neural network theory, they attempted to understand the role that acetylcholine plays in associative memory function. Suppression of intrinsic fiber transmission prevents the recall of previously learned memories. Thus, partial supression may produ ce better memory storage.
Future work includes behavioral tests to illustrate runaway synaptic modificat ion interference.
According to the Hebb learning rule, the connections between neurons are strengthen ed through synchronous activation. Thus, a complete response is provided for incomplete input. Interference betwe en overlapping input patterns would result when presentation of a new memory strengthened the connections between neurons 2 and 3. Partial input during recall would then result in activation of all neurons and recall of all elements of both patterns. Acetylcholine, however, prevents interference between the patterns by preventing activation of neuron 1 by the previously strengthened connections.