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Enhancing cognition by affecting memory reconsolidation


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Authors

Milton, AL 
Everitt, BJ 

Abstract

Fully consolidated associative memories can undergo a retrieval-dependent reconsolidation process, which allows for the updating and strengthening of the original association. Limiting, or so-called boundary, conditions determine whether a particular retrieval event triggers reconsolidation. Manipulating memories at reconsolidation may offer an opportunity to improve cognitive capacities in humans by increasing memory persistence, specificity and accuracy. Also, preventing the reconsolidation of maladaptive memories that characterize some neuropsychiatric disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder or drug addiction may offer a novel approach to treatment. Here we review recent advances in understanding and manipulating memory reconsolidation in both animals and humans, and discuss the potential of such interventions in cognitive enhancement.

Description

Keywords

5202 Biological Psychology, 3214 Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 32 Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, 52 Psychology, Basic Behavioral and Social Science, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Neurosciences, Mental Health, Brain Disorders, Clinical Research, Behavioral and Social Science, Mental health

Journal Title

Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences

Conference Name

Journal ISSN

2352-1546
2352-1546

Volume Title

4

Publisher

Elsevier BV
Sponsorship
Medical Research Council (G1002231)
This work was supported by a UK Medical Research Council Programme Grant (G1002231) to B.J.E. and A.L.M. and was conducted in the Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, and the Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute (BCNI), an initiative jointly funded by the MRC and the Wellcome Trust.