Mechanisms of memory stabilization and de-stabilization.
Memories become stabilized through a time-dependent process that requires gene expression and is commonly known as consolidation. During this time, memories are labile and can be disrupted by a number of interfering events, including electroconvulsive shock, trauma and other learning or the transient effect of drugs such as protein synthesis inhibitors. Once consolidated, memories are insensitive to these disruptions. However, they can again become fragile if recalled or reactivated. Reactivation creates another time-dependent process, known as reconsolidation, during which the memory is restabilized. Here we discuss some of the questions currently debated in the field of memory consolidation and reconsolidation, the molecular and anatomical requirements for both processes and, finally, their functional relationship.
Alberini
C M
CM
Department of Neuroscience, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Box 1065, New York, NY 10029, USA. Cristina.Alberini@mssm.edu
Milekic
M H
MH
Tronel
S
S
D000818:Animals; D001921:Brain / Q000166:cytology / Q000378:metabolism*; D003213:Conditioning, Psychological; D008568:Memory / Q000502:physiology*; D008959:Models, Neurological; D014176:Protein Biosynthesis / Q000502:physiology*; D051381:Rats; D011930:Reaction Time; D013995:Time