Short-term memory might be stored as three-dimensional holograms inside the brain support cells.
April 25, 2026
Original Paper
Astroglia as a base for holographic short-term memory
SSRN · 6643678
The Takeaway
Most neuroscientists believe memories are formed by the firing patterns of neurons. This new model proposes that astrocytes, which are non-neuronal cells, create memory storage through the oscillations of water protons. These oscillations interact with electromagnetic waves to form interference patterns that act like a biological hologram. This system would allow for a much higher density of information storage than traditional synaptic connections. If confirmed, this would mean the brain functions less like a classic computer and more like an advanced optical storage device. It places the foundation of memory in the water and support cells rather than the neurons.
From the abstract
Here is presented a model of holographic short-term memory formed in astrocytes by 3D interference of synchronized electromagnetic waves of proton oscillations in liquid water of intracellular and intercellular plasma. They are generated by spectral components of neuronal spikes. In this model, spikes of calcium concentration in astrocytes identify the obtained 3D holograms in the peaks of distributed intensity of the spatial-temporal interference pattern.