Synapses and protein molecules are involved in the formation of our memories. Synapses can be likened to "devices," while protein molecules serve as the "components" of memories. In fact, these protein molecules are constantly regenerated and replaced within quite a short period of time. Despite this regeneration, the brain can retain memories for decades —— a truly astonishing example of the abstruse mysteries of life. It is thought that there might be some kind of mechanism between the synapses and the protein molecules. Accordingly, scientists say that looking at the actual site where memories are formed is essential in order to unravel the puzzle of what that mechanism might be.