title: Neural mechanisms and computations underlying stress effects on learning and memory.
abstract: Stress has complex effects on memory function that can vary depending on the type of information that is learned and in relation to inter-individual characteristics. Recent work has also shown that stress can switch performance between memory systems, biasing it toward habit in detriment of spatial or goal-directed strategies. In addition, novel synaptic mechanisms have been implicated in the effects of stress in plasticity and memory. Computational modeling is emerging as a useful approach to integrate and to ascertain neural and cognitive computations underlying different effects of stress in memory. Having provided novel explanations for the inverted-U-shaped relationship between stress and cognitive performance, model-based analysis studies can improve our understanding of diverse effects of stress in cognition and psychopathology.
authors.affiliation: Division of Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Basel, Birmannsgasse 8, CH-4055 Basel, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Gediminas
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Luksys
authors.forename: Carmen
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Sandi
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001921:Brain / Q000503:physiopathology*; D003198:Computer Simulation; D006801:Humans; D007859:Learning Disabilities / Q000209:etiology*; D008569:Memory Disorders / Q000209:etiology*; D008959:Models, Neurological; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000150:complications*