Recent neuroscientific advances illuminate key mechanisms underlying memory and neurodegeneration. Studies depict how human insula-hippocampus interactions coordinate episodic memory encoding, while the spatial and epigenetic regulation of microglia shapes Alzheimer’s pathology progression. Additionally, nonhallucinogenic psychedelic analogs induce neuroplasticity via shared receptors without activating immediate early genes, opening pathways for safer psychiatric therapeutics. These integrative insights enhance understanding of brain function and potential intervention points.