A Review of Neuroscientific Research on Human Memory: Current Findings and Future Directions

Abstract

This comprehensive review synthesizes the current state of neuroscientific research on human memory, providing a 
nuanced understanding of the intricate mechanisms that underlie this complex cognitive process. Drawing from a 
vast body of literature, we present a thorough analysis of the key findings, methodologies, and theoretical 
frameworks that have shaped our understanding of memory in recent years. The review begins by exploring the 
fundamental neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of memory, elucidating the roles of various brain regions and 
neural networks involved in encoding, storage, and retrieval processes. We delve into the molecular and cellular 
mechanisms that govern synaptic plasticity, long-term potentiation, and the formation of memory engrams, 
shedding light on the intricate interplay of neurotransmitters and molecular signaling pathways. Furthermore, we 
critically examine the impact of diverse factors on memory function, including age-related changes, genetic 
predispositions, and the influence of environmental factors such as stress and sleep. Our synthesis encompasses 
research findings from both structural and functional neuroimaging studies, highlighting the contributions of 
advanced technologies such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG) in 
unraveling the neural substrates of memory.