Salk Institute laboratory head talks new role in brain cells

Scientists at the Salk Institute are gaining new understanding of how the human brain truly works. Researchers now say cells called astrocytes play a major role in certain types of memories. These cells make up about half of your brain, and it was previously thought they only acted as a support system for neurons. Now, scientists say these cells are responsible for helping you recognize people, places and things from the past.

Professor Terrence Sejnowski of the Salk Institute talked live on KUSI News Thursday night about what this discovery means for future treatments of neurological disorders.