Brain blocks new memory formation on waking to safeguard consolidation of existing memories

During consolidation, the brain produces new proteins that strengthen fragile memory traces. However, if a new experience occurs while an existing memory trace is being consolidated, the new stimuli could disrupt the consolidation process. Some memory consolidation occurs while we are asleep. But what happens if we wake up during consolidation? How does the brain prevent events that occur just after awakening from interrupting the consolidation process? Bar-Ilan University researchers have the answer.
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