Learning of Isolated Ganglia of the Mollusc Lymnaea Stagnalis

Abstract

In the present work we attempt to demonstrate the possibility of the formation of long-term memory traces in the isolated ganglia of Lymnaea stagnalis. In setting up the experiments we started from the following facts and empirical generalizations:

• 1. Molluscs easily develop conditioned reflexes (Fischel 1931; Sokolov 1959).

• 2. All information from receptors is transmitted to the brain as electrical impulses. The main portion of information sent by the brain to effectors is also transmitted in the form of nervous impulses.

• 3. Nerve cells in the isolated ganglia retain their electrical activity for about two days. Twelve to sixteen hours after preparation, cells are capable of responding to stimulation by increasing RNA synthesis as well as protein synthesis (Veprintsev and Dyakonova 1967).

• 4. The ability to form long-term memory must be one of the intrinsic properties of the nervous system.