Author Correction: Plasticity and language in the anaesthetized human hippocampus

A study published in Nature on June 11, 2026, corrected a previous finding regarding plasticity and language processing in the anaesthetized human hippocampus. The correction clarifies that while language processing can be observed in the anaesthetized hippocampus, the observed plasticity is not directly linked to the anaesthetic itself. Researchers demonstrated that specific neural pathways associated with language remain active and responsive even under anaesthesia, challenging earlier interpretations that suggested anaesthesia might induce or significantly alter this plasticity. The study utilized advanced neuroimaging techniques to map these neural activities, providing more precise data on the brain's resilience and adaptability during altered states of consciousness. This nuanced understanding is crucial for further research into brain function, anaesthetic mechanisms, and potential therapeutic interventions for neurological conditions affecting language.