For those interested in the frontiers of the brain and intelligence, a recent Reuters report may cause both fascination and ... dismay.

Scientists at Princeton University, led by neurobiologist Joe Tsien, claim that they have created a strain of smarter mice by inserting a gene into their brains. Not only this, but they believe the technique can be used to enhance learning, memory and intelligence in humans.

The mice were given extra copies of gene "NR2B" - which has been described as a kind of switch that allows the brain to connect events with others - the neural connection behind learning. The test animals showed signs of learning more quickly and retaining this learning longer. Another intriguing aspect of the research is that the new strain of enhanced rodent - dubbed "Doogie" - also retain brain features distinctive of younger mice.

All of this leads scientist to hope that the process can not only keep the brain active longer, but may combat learning disorders and diseases like Alzheimer's. The researchers say the study confirms the theory that memory is created by the bonding of two neurons.

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