Blocking SK channels impairs long-term memory formation in young chicks.
The role of small-conductance calcium-activated potassium (SK) channels in memory formation was explored in chicks trained on a single-trial discrimination avoidance task. Blockade of SK channels using apamin (1 nM, 0.02 ng/hem, i.c.) impaired long-term memory retention when administered between 10 min prior to, and 30 min after, training. Apamin (1 nM, 0.02 ng/hem, immediately post-training, i.c.) resulted in persistent impairment of retention during the long-term memory stage by 90 min post-training until at least 24 h post-training, indicating SK channels contribute to long-term memory.
Baker
Kathryn D
KD
School of Psychology and Psychiatry, Monash University, Clayton, 3800, Victoria, Australia. Kathryn.Baker@monash.edu
Edwards
Thomas M
TM
Rickard
Nikki S
NS
D000704:Analysis of Variance; D000818:Animals; D001030:Apamin / Q000494:pharmacology; D001362:Avoidance Learning / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology; D002645:Chickens; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D057567:Memory, Long-Term / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology; D026902:Potassium Channel Blockers / Q000494:pharmacology*; D012153:Retention, Psychology / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology; D051640:Small-Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors*
D026902:Potassium Channel Blockers; D051640:Small-Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels; D001030:Apamin