Learn how Nobel laureate Dr. Eric Kandel discovered the biological basis of memory formation, in this video from NOVA: Memory Hackers. To better understand how human memories form, Kandel turns to the giant sea slug, Aplysia californica. He first creates a long-lasting memory in the sea slug. Next, he reconstructs a single neural circuit using a sensory and motor neuron extracted from the slug. Kandel then uses the same memory formation technique used in the slug to create a memory within the neural circuit. As the memory forms, new synaptic connections begin to grow, revealing for the first time that memory involves anatomical changes in the brain. Using today’s imaging technology, Kandel describes how the process unfolds. This resource is part of the NOVA Collection.