Dopamine-based mechanism for transient forgetting.

ABSTRACT: Active forgetting is an essential component of the memory management system of the brain¹. Forgetting can be permanent, in which prior memory is lost completely, or transient, in which memory exists in a temporary state of impaired retrieval. Temporary blocks on memory seem to be universal, and can disrupt an individual's plans, social interactions and ability to make rapid, flexible and appropriate choices. However, the neurobiological mechanisms that cause transient forgetting are unknown. Here we identify a single dopamine neuron in Drosophila that mediates the memory suppression that results in transient forgetting. Artificially activating this neuron did not abolish the expression of long-term memory. Instead, it briefly suppressed memory retrieval, with the memory becoming

SUBMITTER: Sabandal JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8522469 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature