A new study has overturned the long-held belief that only neurons store memories by revealing that astrocytes—previously considered mere support cells—play a crucial role in locking in emotional experiences for the long term. Researchers found that astrocytes do not react during an initial event but become active when an emotional memory is recalled, helping stabilize it in the brain. They also develop special receptors that act like tags, marking memories the brain deems important. This discovery could reshape neuroscience and lead to new treatments for conditions like PTSD and Alzheimer’s disease by targeting astrocytes to strengthen or soften emotional memories.