Modifying Memories: Parsing Motivational and Predictive Value

[摘要] During memory retrieval, previously consolidated memories enter a labile state, rendering them vulnerable to disruption and/or modification. It has often been assumed that disrupting reconsolidation affects the entire memory. However, recent human studies have demonstrated that the beta-adrenergic antagonist, propranolol, can disrupt the emotional component of a memory without erasing the informational component. In the present experiments, we utilized a behavioral model of individual differences to determine whether propranolol differentially affects emotional and informational components of memory in animal models. We found that propranolol selectively disrupts behavior indicative of attributing emotional/motivational salience, without affecting other behaviors. Thus, in animal models, propranolol does not erase memory, but rather, it degrades the emotional motivational value of an association. We also found that propranolol decreases the extent to which cues engage ;;motive circuit’ brain regions in STs. Together these findings provide a preclinical model that can be used to further investigate treatments for disorders that may be exacerbated by reward- or trauma-paired cues.

[发布机构] University of Michigan

[效力级别] Pavlovian Conditioning

[关键词] Reconsolidation;Pavlovian Conditioning;Incentive Motivation;Science (General);Psychology;Science;Social Sciences;Psychology