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Raskin M, Keller NE, Agee LA, Shumake J, Smits JA, Telch MJ, Otto MW, Lee HJ, Monfils MH. Carbon Dioxide Reactivity Differentially Predicts Fear Expression After Extinction and Retrieval-Extinction in Rats. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY GLOBAL OPEN SCIENCE 2024; 4:100310. [PMID: 38680941 PMCID: PMC11047292 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsgos.2024.100310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Cues present during a traumatic event may result in persistent fear responses. These responses can be attenuated through extinction learning, a core component of exposure therapy. Exposure/extinction is effective for some people, but not all. We recently demonstrated that carbon dioxide (CO2) reactivity predicts fear extinction memory and orexin activation and that orexin activation predicts fear extinction memory, which suggests that a CO2 challenge may enable identification of whether an individual is a good candidate for an extinction-based approach. Another method to attenuate conditioned responses, retrieval-extinction, renders the original associative memory labile via distinct neural mechanisms. The purpose of the current study was to examine whether we could replicate previous findings that retrieval-extinction is more effective than extinction at preventing the return of fear and that CO2 reactivity predicts fear memory after extinction. We also examined whether CO2 reactivity predicts fear memory after retrieval-extinction. Methods Male rats first underwent a CO2 challenge and fear conditioning and were assigned to receive either standard extinction (n = 28) or retrieval-extinction (n = 28). Then, they underwent a long-term memory (LTM) test and a reinstatement test. Results We found that retrieval-extinction resulted in lower freezing during extinction, LTM, and reinstatement than standard extinction. Using the best subset approach to linear regression, we found that CO2 reactivity predicted LTM after extinction and also predicted LTM after retrieval-extinction, although to a lesser degree. Conclusions CO2 reactivity could be used as a screening tool to determine whether an individual may be a good candidate for an extinction-based therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa Raskin
- Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Nicole E. Keller
- Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Laura A. Agee
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Jason Shumake
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Jasper A.J. Smits
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Michael J. Telch
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Michael W. Otto
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Hongjoo J. Lee
- Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Marie-H. Monfils
- Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
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2
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Sartori SB, Keil TMV, Kummer KK, Murphy CP, Gunduz-Cinar O, Kress M, Ebner K, Holmes A, Singewald N. Fear extinction rescuing effects of dopamine and L-DOPA in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:11. [PMID: 38191458 PMCID: PMC10774374 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02708-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC; rodent infralimbic cortex (IL)), is posited to be an important locus of fear extinction-facilitating effects of the dopamine (DA) bio-precursor, L-DOPA, but this hypothesis remains to be formally tested. Here, in a model of impaired fear extinction (the 129S1/SvImJ inbred mouse strain; S1), we monitored extracellular DA dynamics via in vivo microdialysis in IL during fear extinction and following L-DOPA administration. Systemic L-DOPA caused sustained elevation of extracellular DA levels in IL and increased neuronal activation in a subpopulation of IL neurons. Systemic L-DOPA enabled extinction learning and promoted extinction retention at one but not ten days after training. Conversely, direct microinfusion of DA into IL produced long-term fear extinction (an effect that was insensitive to ɑ-/ß-adrenoreceptor antagonism). However, intra-IL delivery of a D1-like or D2 receptor agonist did not facilitate extinction. Using ex vivo multi-electrode array IL neuronal recordings, along with ex vivo quantification of immediate early genes and DA receptor signalling markers in mPFC, we found evidence of reduced DA-evoked mPFC network responses in S1 as compared with extinction-competent C57BL/6J mice that were partially driven by D1 receptor activation. Together, our data demonstrate that locally increasing DA in IL is sufficient to produce lasting rescue of impaired extinction. The finding that systemic L-DOPA increased IL DA levels, but had only transient effects on extinction, suggests L-DOPA failed to reach a threshold level of IL DA or produced opposing behavioural effects in other brain regions. Collectively, our findings provide further insight into the neural basis of the extinction-promoting effects of DA and L-DOPA in a clinically relevant animal model, with possible implications for therapeutically targeting the DA system in anxiety and trauma-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone B Sartori
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Thomas M V Keil
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Kai K Kummer
- Institute of Physiology, Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Conor P Murphy
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ozge Gunduz-Cinar
- Laboratory of Behavioral and Genomic Neuroscience, NIH/NIAAA, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Michaela Kress
- Institute of Physiology, Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Karl Ebner
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Andrew Holmes
- Laboratory of Behavioral and Genomic Neuroscience, NIH/NIAAA, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Nicolas Singewald
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacy and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
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3
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Hilz EN, Agee LA, Jun D, Monfils MH, Lee HJ. Estrous cycle state-dependent renewal of appetitive behavior recruits unique patterns of Arc mRNA in female rats. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1210631. [PMID: 37521726 PMCID: PMC10372431 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1210631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Renewal is a behavioral phenomenon wherein extinction learning fails to generalize between different contextual environments, thereby representing a significant challenge to extinction-based rehabilitative therapies. Previously, we have shown that renewal of extinguished appetitive behavior differs across the estrous cycle of the female rat. In this experiment that effect is replicated and extended upon to understand how the estrous cycle may modulate contextual representation at the neuronal population level to drive renewal. Methods Estrous cycle stage [i.e., proestrus (P, high hormone) or metestrus/diestrus (M/D, low hormone)] was considered during two important learning and behavioral expression windows: at extinction training and during long-term memory (LTM)/renewal testing. Cellular compartment analysis of temporal activity using fluorescence in situ hybridization (catFISH) for Arc mRNA was conducted after the distinct context-stimulus exposures. Results Rats in P during context-dependent extinction training but in a different stage of the estrous cycle during LTM and renewal testing (P-different) were shown to exhibit more renewal of conditioned foodcup (but not conditioned orienting) behavior compared to rats in other estrous cycle groups. Importantly, we discovered this depends on the order of tests. P-different rats showed differential Arc mRNA expression in regions of the prefrontal cortex (PFC), amygdala, and hippocampus (HPC). For each case P-different rats had more co-expression (i.e., expression of both nuclear and cytoplasmic) of Arc mRNA compared to other groups; specific to the dorsal HPC, P-different rats also had a more robust Arc mRNA response to the extinction context exposure. Conclusion These data suggest female rats show estrous cycle state-dependent renewal of appetitive behavior, and differences in context and conditioned stimulus representation at the neuronal level may drive this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily N. Hilz
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Laura A. Agee
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Donyun Jun
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Marie-H. Monfils
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
- Institute for Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Hongjoo J. Lee
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
- Institute for Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
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4
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Raskin M, Monfils MH. Reconsolidation and Fear Extinction: An Update. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2023; 64:307-333. [PMID: 37563489 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2023_438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Fear memories can be updated behaviorally by delivering extinction trials during the reconsolidation window, which results in a persistent attenuation of fear memories (Monfils et al., Science 324:951-955, 2009). This safe and non-invasive paradigm, termed retrieval-extinction (or post-retrieval extinction), has also been found to be successful at preventing the return of fear in healthy fear conditioned humans (Schiller et al., Nature 463:49-53, 2010), and in the time since its discovery, there has been an explosion of research on the use of retrieval-extinction in fear memories in humans and other animals, some of which have found a long-term reduction in conditioned responding, and some who have not. These discrepant findings have raised concerns as to whether retrieval-extinction really results in updating of the original fear memory, or if it simply enhances extinction. We will first review the progress made on elucidating the cellular mechanisms underlying the fear attenuating effects of retrieval-extinction and how they differ from traditional extinction. Special attention will be paid to the molecular events necessary for retrieval-extinction to successfully occur and how these reconsolidated memories are represented in the brain. Next, we will examine the parameters that determine whether or not a memory will be updated via extinction during the reconsolidation window (also known as boundary conditions). These boundary conditions will also be discussed as possible explanations for discrepant findings of the retrieval-extinction effect. Then we will examine the factors that can determine whether an individual's fears will successfully be attenuated by retrieval-extinction. These individual differences include genetics, age, and psychopathology. Finally, we will discuss recent attempts to bring the retrieval-extinction paradigm from the bench to the bedside for the behavioral treatment of anxiety and trauma disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa Raskin
- Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Marie-H Monfils
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
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5
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The elegant complexity of fear in non-human animals. Emerg Top Life Sci 2022; 6:445-455. [PMID: 36069657 PMCID: PMC9788375 DOI: 10.1042/etls20220001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Activation of the fear system is adaptive, and protects individuals from impending harm; yet, exacerbation of the fear system is at the source of anxiety-related disorders. Here, we briefly review the 'why' and 'how' of fear, with an emphasis on models that encapsulate the elegant complexity of rodents' behavioral responding in the face of impending harm, and its relevance to developing treatment interventions.
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6
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Guadagno A, Belliveau C, Mechawar N, Walker CD. Effects of Early Life Stress on the Developing Basolateral Amygdala-Prefrontal Cortex Circuit: The Emerging Role of Local Inhibition and Perineuronal Nets. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:669120. [PMID: 34512291 PMCID: PMC8426628 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.669120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The links between early life stress (ELS) and the emergence of psychopathology such as increased anxiety and depression are now well established, although the specific neurobiological and developmental mechanisms that translate ELS into poor health outcomes are still unclear. The consequences of ELS are complex because they depend on the form and severity of early stress, duration, and age of exposure as well as co-occurrence with other forms of physical or psychological trauma. The long term effects of ELS on the corticolimbic circuit underlying emotional and social behavior are particularly salient because ELS occurs during critical developmental periods in the establishment of this circuit, its local balance of inhibition:excitation and its connections with other neuronal pathways. Using examples drawn from the human and rodent literature, we review some of the consequences of ELS on the development of the corticolimbic circuit and how it might impact fear regulation in a sex- and hemispheric-dependent manner in both humans and rodents. We explore the effects of ELS on local inhibitory neurons and the formation of perineuronal nets (PNNs) that terminate critical periods of plasticity and promote the formation of stable local networks. Overall, the bulk of ELS studies report transient and/or long lasting alterations in both glutamatergic circuits and local inhibitory interneurons (INs) and their associated PNNs. Since the activity of INs plays a key role in the maturation of cortical regions and the formation of local field potentials, alterations in these INs triggered by ELS might critically participate in the development of psychiatric disorders in adulthood, including impaired fear extinction and anxiety behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Guadagno
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Claudia Belliveau
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Naguib Mechawar
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Claire-Dominique Walker
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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7
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Dubois CJ, Liu SJ. GluN2D NMDA Receptors Gate Fear Extinction Learning and Interneuron Plasticity. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2021; 13:681068. [PMID: 34108872 PMCID: PMC8183684 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2021.681068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The cerebellum is critically involved in the formation of associative fear memory and in subsequent extinction learning. Fear conditioning is associated with a long-term potentiation at both excitatory and inhibitory synapses onto Purkinje cells. We therefore tested whether fear conditioning unmasks novel forms of synaptic plasticity, which enable subsequent extinction learning to reset cerebellar circuitry. We found that fear learning enhanced GABA release from molecular layer interneurons and this was reversed after fear extinction learning. Importantly an extinction-like stimulation of parallel fibers after fear learning is sufficient to induce a lasting decrease in inhibitory transmission (I-LTDstim) in the cerebellar cortex, a form of plasticity that is absent in naïve animals. While NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptors are required for the formation and extinction of associative memory, the role of GluN2D, one of the four major NMDA receptor subunits, in learning and memory has not been determined. We found that fear conditioning elevates spontaneous GABA release in GluN2D KO as shown in WT mice. Deletion of GluN2D, however, abolished the I-LTDstim induced by parallel fiber stimulation after learning. At the behavioral level, genetic deletion of GluN2D subunits did not affect associative learning and memory retention, but impaired subsequent fear extinction learning. D-cycloserine, a partial NMDA receptor (NMDAR) agonist, failed to rescue extinction learning in mutant mice. Our results identify GluN2D as a critical NMDAR subunit for extinction learning and reveal a form of GluN2D-dependent metaplasticity that is associated with extinction in the cerebellum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe J Dubois
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Siqiong June Liu
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, United States.,Southeast Louisiana VA Healthcare System, New Orleans, LA, United States
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8
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Molecular Mechanisms of Reconsolidation-Dependent Memory Updating. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186580. [PMID: 32916796 PMCID: PMC7555418 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Memory is not a stable record of experience, but instead is an ongoing process that allows existing memories to be modified with new information through a reconsolidation-dependent updating process. For a previously stable memory to be updated, the memory must first become labile through a process called destabilization. Destabilization is a protein degradation-dependent process that occurs when new information is presented. Following destabilization, a memory becomes stable again through a protein synthesis-dependent process called restabilization. Much work remains to fully characterize the mechanisms that underlie both destabilization and subsequent restabilization, however. In this article, we briefly review the discovery of reconsolidation as a potential mechanism for memory updating. We then discuss the behavioral paradigms that have been used to identify the molecular mechanisms of reconsolidation-dependent memory updating. Finally, we outline what is known about the molecular mechanisms that support the memory updating process. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying reconsolidation-dependent memory updating is an important step toward leveraging this process in a therapeutic setting to modify maladaptive memories and to improve memory when it fails.
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9
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Maddox SA, Hartmann J, Ross RA, Ressler KJ. Deconstructing the Gestalt: Mechanisms of Fear, Threat, and Trauma Memory Encoding. Neuron 2019; 102:60-74. [PMID: 30946827 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2019.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Threat processing is central to understanding debilitating fear- and trauma-related disorders such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Progress has been made in understanding the neural circuits underlying the "engram" of threat or fear memory formation that complements a decades-old appreciation of the neurobiology of fear and threat involving hub structures such as the amygdala. In this review, we examine key recent findings, as well as integrate the importance of hormonal and physiological approaches, to provide a broader perspective of how bodily systems engaged in threat responses may interact with amygdala-based circuits in the encoding and updating of threat-related memory. Understanding how trauma-related memories are encoded and updated throughout the brain and the body will ultimately lead to novel biologically-driven approaches for treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Maddox
- Neurobiology of Fear Laboratory, Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA 02478, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jakob Hartmann
- Neurobiology of Fear Laboratory, Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA 02478, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Rachel A Ross
- Neurobiology of Fear Laboratory, Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA 02478, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Kerry J Ressler
- Neurobiology of Fear Laboratory, Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA 02478, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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10
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Chen YY, Zhang LB, Li Y, Meng SQ, Gong YM, Lu L, Xue YX, Shi J. Post-retrieval Extinction Prevents Reconsolidation of Methamphetamine Memory Traces and Subsequent Reinstatement of Methamphetamine Seeking. Front Mol Neurosci 2019; 12:157. [PMID: 31312119 PMCID: PMC6614190 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2019.00157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Methamphetamine abuse has become a serious public health problem. However, effective treatment for methamphetamine addiction remains elusive, especially considering its high rate of relapse after treatment. A conditioned stimulus (CS) memory retrieval–extinction procedure has been demonstrated to decrease reinstatement of cocaine, heroin, and alcohol seeking in rats, and to reduce cue-induced cravings in heroin and nicotine addicts. The goal of the present study is to explore the effect of the CS memory retrieval–extinction procedure on methamphetamine seeking in rats and the underlying mechanisms. We found that daily retrieval of methamphetamine-associated memories 1 h before extinction sessions decreased subsequent drug priming-induced reinstatement, spontaneous recovery, and renewal of methamphetamine seeking. We also found that retrieval of methamphetamine-associated memories induced neuronal activation in the basolateral amygdala (BLA), while presenting extinction within the time window of reconsolidation abolished the neuronal activation in BLA. These results indicate that the CS memory retrieval–extinction procedure could prevent reconsolidation of methamphetamine memory traces in BLA and subsequent methamphetamine craving and relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Yun Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Bo Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shi-Qiu Meng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Miao Gong
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Lu
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences and PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Peking University Sixth Hospital/Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Peking University, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
| | - Yan-Xue Xue
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Shi
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Dependence, National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China
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11
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Cahill EN, Milton AL. Neurochemical and molecular mechanisms underlying the retrieval-extinction effect. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:111-132. [PMID: 30656364 PMCID: PMC6373198 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-5121-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Extinction within the reconsolidation window, or 'retrieval-extinction', has received much research interest as a possible technique for targeting the reconsolidation of maladaptive memories with a behavioural intervention. However, it remains to be determined whether the retrieval-extinction effect-a long-term reduction in fear behaviour, which appears resistant to spontaneous recovery, renewal and reinstatement-depends specifically on destabilisation of the original memory (the 'reconsolidation-update' account) or represents facilitation of an extinction memory (the 'extinction-facilitation' account). We propose that comparing the neurotransmitter systems, receptors and intracellular signalling pathways recruited by reconsolidation, extinction and retrieval-extinction will provide a way of distinguishing between these accounts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma N Cahill
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Amy L Milton
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK.
- Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Cambridge, CB2 3EB, UK.
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12
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Monfils MH, Lee HJ, Keller NE, Roquet RF, Quevedo S, Agee L, Cofresi R, Shumake J. Predicting extinction phenotype to optimize fear reduction. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:99-110. [PMID: 30218131 PMCID: PMC6391193 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-5005-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Fear conditioning is widely employed to study dysregulations of the fear system. The repeated presentation of a conditioned stimulus in the absence of a reinforcer leads to a decrease in fear responding-a phenomenon known as extinction. From a translational perspective, identifying whether an individual might respond well to extinction prior to intervention could prove important to treatment outcomes. Here, we test the hypothesis that CO2 reactivity predicts extinction phenotype in rats, and that variability in CO2 reactivity as well as extinction long-term memory (LTM) significantly predicts orexin activity in the lateral hypothalamus (LH). Our results validate a rat model of CO2 reactivity and show that subcomponents of behavioral reactivity following acute CO2 exposure explain a significant portion of the variance in extinction LTM. Furthermore, we show evidence that variability in CO2 reactivity is also significantly predictive of orexin activity in the LH, and that orexin activity, in turn, significantly accounts for LTM variance. Our findings open the possibility that we may be able to use CO2 reactivity as a screening tool to determine if individuals are good candidates for an extinction/exposure-based approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- M H Monfils
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
- Institute for Neuroscience, Austin, TX, USA.
- Institute for Mental Health Research, Austin, TX, USA.
| | - H J Lee
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Institute for Neuroscience, Austin, TX, USA
| | - N E Keller
- Institute for Neuroscience, Austin, TX, USA
| | - R F Roquet
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - S Quevedo
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - L Agee
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - R Cofresi
- Institute for Neuroscience, Austin, TX, USA
| | - J Shumake
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Institute for Mental Health Research, Austin, TX, USA
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13
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Jacques A, Chaaya N, Hettiarachchi C, Carmody ML, Beecher K, Belmer A, Chehrehasa F, Bartlett S, Battle AR, Johnson LR. Microtopography of fear memory consolidation and extinction retrieval within prefrontal cortex and amygdala. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2019; 236:383-397. [PMID: 30610350 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-5068-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The precise neural circuitry that encodes fear memory and its extinction within the brain are not yet fully understood. Fearful memories can be persistent, resistant to extinction, and associated with psychiatric disorders, especially post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Here, we investigated the microtopography of neurons activated during the recall of an extinguished fear memory, as well as the influence of time on this microtopography. METHODS We used the plasticity-related phosphorylated mitogen-activated protein kinase (pMAPK) to identify neurons activated in the recall of consolidated and extinguished auditory Pavlovian fear memories in rats. Quantitatively matched brain regions were used to investigate activity in the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. RESULTS Recall of a consolidated, nonextinguished auditory fear memory resulted in a significantly greater number of activated neurons located in the dorsolateral subdivision of the lateral amygdala (LADL) when recalled 24 h after consolidation but not when recalled 7 days later. We found that the recall of an extinction memory was associated with pMAPK activation in the ventrolateral subdivision of the lateral amygdala (LAVL). Next, we showed that the pattern of pMAPK expression in the prelimbic cortex differed spatially following temporal variation in the recall of that memory. The deep and superficial layers of the pre-limbic cortex were engaged in recent recall of a fear memory, but only the superficial layers were recruited if the recall occurred 7 days later. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our findings demonstrate a functional microtopography of auditory fear memory during consolidation and extinction at the microanatomical level within the lateral amygdala and medial prefrontal cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Jacques
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.,Translational Research Institute, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Department of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Nicholas Chaaya
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.,Translational Research Institute, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Department of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Chiemi Hettiarachchi
- Translational Research Institute, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Department of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Marie-Louise Carmody
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.,Translational Research Institute, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Department of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Kate Beecher
- Translational Research Institute, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Department of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Arnauld Belmer
- Translational Research Institute, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Department of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Fatemeh Chehrehasa
- Translational Research Institute, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Department of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Selena Bartlett
- Translational Research Institute, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Department of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Andrew R Battle
- Translational Research Institute, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Department of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.,The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Luke R Johnson
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia. .,Translational Research Institute, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Department of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia. .,Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress, Department of Psychiatry, USU School of Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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14
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Monfils MH, Holmes EA. Memory boundaries: opening a window inspired by reconsolidation to treat anxiety, trauma-related, and addiction disorders. Lancet Psychiatry 2018; 5:1032-1042. [PMID: 30385214 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(18)30270-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Pioneering research over the past two decades has shown that memories are far more malleable than we once thought, thereby highlighting the potential for new clinical avenues for treatment of psychopathology. We first briefly review the historical foundation of memory reconsolidation-a concept that refers to hypothetical processes that occur when a memory is retrieved and restored. Then, we provide an overview of the basic research on memory reconsolidation that has been done with humans and other animals, focusing on models of fear, anxiety-related disorders, and addiction, from the perspective that they all involve disorders of memory. This basic research has fuelled early stage developments of novel treatment techniques. More specifically, we consider behavioural interventions inspired by reconsolidation updating, namely retrieval-extinction techniques. We discuss the set of principles that would be needed for memory modifications within a putative reconsolidation time window, and review research that employs reconsolidation-based strategies with clinical populations. We conclude by highlighting current pitfalls and controversies surrounding the use of reconsolidation-based approaches, but end on an optimistic note for clinical research going forward. Despite the challenges, we believe that drawing on ideas from psychological science can help open up treatment innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie H Monfils
- Department of Psychology, Institute for Mental Health Research, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
| | - Emily A Holmes
- Division of Psychology, Department for Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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15
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Abstract
Several studies have revealed that fear recovery is prevented when extinction training is conducted after retrieval of a fear memory. Postretrieval extinction training is related to modification of memory during reconsolidation. Providing new information during reconsolidation can modify the original memory. We propose that avoidance behavior is a relevant factor that prevents subjects from obtaining new safety information during reconsolidation. Postretrieval extinction training without avoidance behavior reduced the fear response to conditioned stimulus and prevented spontaneous recovery in the current study, which corresponded with previous studies. Under the condition of postretrieval extinction training with avoidance behavior, the fear response was not reduced as much as it was in the condition without avoidance. It is possible that avoidance behavior prevents receiving new safety information during postretrieval extinction training.
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16
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Jacques A, Wright A, Chaaya N, Overell A, Bergstrom HC, McDonald C, Battle AR, Johnson LR. Functional Neuronal Topography: A Statistical Approach to Micro Mapping Neuronal Location. Front Neural Circuits 2018; 12:84. [PMID: 30386215 PMCID: PMC6198090 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2018.00084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In order to understand the relationship between neuronal organization and behavior, precise methods that identify and quantify functional cellular ensembles are required. This is especially true in the quest to understand the mechanisms of memory. Brain structures involved in memory formation and storage, as well as the molecular determinates of memory are well-known, however, the microanatomy of functional neuronal networks remain largely unidentified. We developed a novel approach to statistically map molecular markers in neuronal networks through quantitative topographic measurement. Brain nuclei and their subdivisions are well-defined - our approach allows for the identification of new functional micro-regions within established subdivisions. A set of analytic methods relevant for measurement of discrete neuronal data across a diverse range of brain subdivisions are presented. We provide a methodology for the measurement and quantitative comparison of functional micro-neural network activity based on immunohistochemical markers matched across individual brains using micro-binning and heat mapping within brain sub-nuclei. These techniques were applied to the measurement of different memory traces, allowing for greater understanding of the functional encoding within sub-nuclei and its behavior mediated change. These approaches can be used to understand other functional and behavioral questions, including sub-circuit organization, normal memory function and the complexities of pathology. Precise micro-mapping of functional neuronal topography provides essential data to decode network activity underlying behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Jacques
- Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,School of Psychology and Counseling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Alison Wright
- Faculty of Health Science and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Nicholas Chaaya
- Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,School of Psychology and Counseling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Anne Overell
- Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,School of Psychology and Counseling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Hadley C Bergstrom
- Psychological Science Department, Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, NY, United States
| | - Craig McDonald
- Department of Psychology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, United States
| | - Andrew R Battle
- Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Translational Research Institute, School of Medicine, The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Luke R Johnson
- Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,School of Psychology and Counseling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Department of Psychiatry and Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress, Uniformed Services University School of Medicine, Bethesda, MD, United States
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17
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Ivanova TN, Gross C, Mappus RC, Kwon YJ, Bassell GJ, Liu RC. Familiarity with a vocal category biases the compartmental expression of Arc/Arg3.1 in core auditory cortex. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 24:612-621. [PMID: 29142056 PMCID: PMC5688959 DOI: 10.1101/lm.046086.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Learning to recognize a stimulus category requires experience with its many natural variations. However, the mechanisms that allow a category's sensorineural representation to be updated after experiencing new exemplars are not well understood, particularly at the molecular level. Here we investigate how a natural vocal category induces expression in the auditory system of a key synaptic plasticity effector immediate early gene, Arc/Arg3.1, which is required for memory consolidation. We use the ultrasonic communication system between mouse pups and adult females to study whether prior familiarity with pup vocalizations alters how Arc is engaged in the core auditory cortex after playback of novel exemplars from the pup vocal category. A computerized, 3D surface-assisted cellular compartmental analysis, validated against manual cell counts, demonstrates significant changes in the recruitment of neurons expressing Arc in pup-experienced animals (mothers and virgin females “cocaring” for pups) compared with pup-inexperienced animals (pup-naïve virgins), especially when listening to more familiar, natural calls compared to less familiar but similarly recognized tonal model calls. Our data support the hypothesis that the kinetics of Arc induction to refine cortical representations of sensory categories is sensitive to the familiarity of the sensory experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara N Ivanova
- Department of Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
| | - Christina Gross
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA.,Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
| | - Rudolph C Mappus
- Department of Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
| | - Yong Jun Kwon
- Department of Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA.,Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Laney Graduate School, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
| | - Gary J Bassell
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA.,Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
| | - Robert C Liu
- Department of Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA.,Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
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18
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Kroes MCW, Dunsmoor JE, Lin Q, Evans M, Phelps EA. A reminder before extinction strengthens episodic memory via reconsolidation but fails to disrupt generalized threat responses. Sci Rep 2017; 7:10858. [PMID: 28883499 PMCID: PMC5589753 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10682-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A reminder can temporarily renew flexibility of consolidated memories, referred to as reconsolidation. Pavlovian threat-conditioning studies suggest that a reminder can renew flexibility of threat responses but that episodic memories remain stable. In contrast, outside the threat-conditioning domain, studies testing memory for word lists or stories find that a reminder can renew flexibility of episodic memory. This discrepancy in findings leaves it unclear if episodic memories reconsolidate, or only Pavlovian responses. Here we unite the different approaches in the field and show that a reminder can retroactively strengthen episodic memory for Pavlovian threat-conditioned events, but that, in contrast to threat-conditioning studies with simple sensory stimuli, extinction after a reminder fails to prevent recovery of generalized threat responses. Our results indicate the episodic memories also reconsolidate, allowing strengthening of relevant memories. These findings also suggest that generalized threat responses and episodic memories are less susceptible to be modified by reminder-interventions procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijn C W Kroes
- Department of Psychology, New York University, New York, NY, 10003, United States.
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, 10003, United States.
| | - Joseph E Dunsmoor
- University of Texas at Austin, Department of Psychiatry, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Qi Lin
- Department of Psychology, New York University, New York, NY, 10003, United States
| | - Michael Evans
- Department of Psychology, New York University, New York, NY, 10003, United States
| | - Elizabeth A Phelps
- Department of Psychology, New York University, New York, NY, 10003, United States.
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, 10003, United States.
- Nathan Kline Institute, Orangeburg, NY, 10962, United States.
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19
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Gershman SJ, Monfils MH, Norman KA, Niv Y. The computational nature of memory modification. eLife 2017; 6. [PMID: 28294944 PMCID: PMC5391211 DOI: 10.7554/elife.23763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2016] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Retrieving a memory can modify its influence on subsequent behavior. We develop a computational theory of memory modification, according to which modification of a memory trace occurs through classical associative learning, but which memory trace is eligible for modification depends on a structure learning mechanism that discovers the units of association by segmenting the stream of experience into statistically distinct clusters (latent causes). New memories are formed when the structure learning mechanism infers that a new latent cause underlies current sensory observations. By the same token, old memories are modified when old and new sensory observations are inferred to have been generated by the same latent cause. We derive this framework from probabilistic principles, and present a computational implementation. Simulations demonstrate that our model can reproduce the major experimental findings from studies of memory modification in the Pavlovian conditioning literature. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.23763.001 Our memories contain our expectations about the world that we can retrieve to make predictions about the future. For example, most people would expect a chocolate bar to taste good, because they have previously learned to associate chocolate with pleasure. When a surprising event occurs, such as tasting an unpalatable chocolate bar, the brain therefore faces a dilemma. Should it update the existing memory and overwrite the association between chocolate and pleasure? Or should it create an additional memory? In the latter case, the brain would form a new association between chocolate and displeasure that competes with, but does not overwrite, the original one between chocolate and pleasure. Previous studies have shown that surprising events tend to create new memories unless the existing memory is briefly reactivated before the surprising event occurs. In other words, retrieving old memories makes them more malleable. Gershman et al. have now developed a computational model for how the brain decides whether to update an old memory or create a new one. The idea at the heart of the model is that the brain will attempt to infer what caused the surprising event. The reason the chocolate bar tastes unpalatable, for example, might be because it was old and had spoiled. Every time the brain infers a new possible cause for a surprising event, it will create an additional memory to store this new set of expectations. In the future we will know that spoiled chocolate bars taste bad. However, if the brain cannot infer a new cause for the surprising event – because, for example, there appears to be nothing unusual about the unpalatable chocolate bar – it will instead opt to update the existing memory. The next time we buy a chocolate bar, we will have slightly lower expectations about how good it will taste. The dilemma of whether to update an existing memory or create a new one thus boils down to the question: is the surprising event the consequence of a new cause or an old one? This theory implies that retrieving a memory nudges the brain to infer that its associated cause is once again active and, since this is an old cause, it means that the memory will be eligible for updating. Many experiments have been performed on the topic of modifying memories, but this is the first computational model that offers a unifying explanation for the results. The next step is to work out how to apply the model, which is phrased in abstract terms, to networks of neurons that are more biologically realistic. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.23763.002
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel J Gershman
- Department of Psychology and Center for Brain Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, United States
| | - Marie-H Monfils
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas, Austin, United States
| | - Kenneth A Norman
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute and Department of Psychology, Princeton University, Princeton, United States
| | - Yael Niv
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute and Department of Psychology, Princeton University, Princeton, United States
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20
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Telch MJ, York J, Lancaster CL, Monfils MH. Use of a Brief Fear Memory Reactivation Procedure for Enhancing Exposure Therapy. Clin Psychol Sci 2017; 5:367-378. [DOI: 10.1177/2167702617690151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
Abstract
We tested postretrieval extinction as an augmentation strategy for enhancing in vivo exposure therapy for naturally acquired pathological fear. Participants displaying marked phobic responding to either spiders or snakes were randomized to receive a standard one session in vivo exposure therapy protocol under one of two conditions. The experimental group (RFM-EXP) completed a 10-s fear reactivation procedure 30 min prior to initiating exposure therapy. Controls (EXP-RFM) completed the reactivation procedure after completing exposure therapy. Expected and peak fear during confrontation with live spiders or snakes were collected at pretreatment, posttreatment, and 1-month follow-up. RFM-EXP participants displayed significantly lower phobic responding at the 1-month follow-up relative to EXP-RFM controls. Unexpectedly, RFM-EXP participants showed more rapid fear attenuation during exposure relative to controls. Results provide preliminary support for further investigation of this exposure augmentation strategy across a wider range of anxiety-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jamie York
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin
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21
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Auchter A, Cormack LK, Niv Y, Gonzalez-Lima F, Monfils MH. Reconsolidation-Extinction Interactions in Fear Memory Attenuation: The Role of Inter-Trial Interval Variability. Front Behav Neurosci 2017; 11:2. [PMID: 28174526 PMCID: PMC5258753 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2017.00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Fear extinction typically results in the formation of a new inhibitory memory that suppresses the original conditioned response. Evidence also suggests that extinction training during a retrieval-induced labile period results in integration of the extinction memory into the original fear memory, rendering the fear memory less susceptible to reinstatement. Here we investigated the parameters by which the retrieval-extinction paradigm was most effective in memory updating. Specifically, we manipulated the inter-trial intervals (ITIs) between conditional stimulus (CS) presentations during extinction, examining how having interval lengths with different degrees of variability affected the strength of memory updating. We showed that randomizing the ITI of CS presentations during extinction led to less return of fear via reinstatement than extinction with a fixed ITI. Subjects who received variable ITIs during extinction also showed higher freezing during the ITI, indicating that the randomization of CS presentations led to a higher general reactivity during extinction, which may be one potential mechanism for memory updating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Auchter
- Department of Psychology, Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at AustinAustin, TX, USA
| | - Lawrence K. Cormack
- Department of Psychology, Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at AustinAustin, TX, USA
| | - Yael Niv
- Department of Psychology and Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton UniversityPrinceton, NJ, USA
| | - Francisco Gonzalez-Lima
- Department of Psychology, Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at AustinAustin, TX, USA
| | - Marie H. Monfils
- Department of Psychology, Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at AustinAustin, TX, USA
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22
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Jones CE, Monfils MH. Post-retrieval extinction in adolescence prevents return of juvenile fear. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 23:567-75. [PMID: 27634147 PMCID: PMC5026207 DOI: 10.1101/lm.043281.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic experiences early in life can contribute to the development of mood and anxiety disorders that manifest during adolescence and young adulthood. In young rats exposed to acute fear or stress, alterations in neural development can lead to enduring behavioral abnormalities. Here, we used a modified extinction intervention (retrieval+extinction) during late adolescence (post-natal day 45 [p45]), in rats, to target auditory Pavlovian fear associations acquired as juveniles (p17 and p25). The effects of adolescent intervention were examined by assessing freezing as adults during both fear reacquisition and social transmission of fear from a cagemate. Rats underwent testing or training at three time points across development: juvenile (p17 or p25), adolescent (p45), and adult (p100). Retrieval+extinction during late adolescence prevented social reinstatement and recovery over time of fears initially acquired as juveniles (p17 and p25, respectively). Adolescence was the only time point tested here where retrieval+extinction prevented fear recall of associations acquired 20+ days earlier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn E Jones
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712-1043, USA
| | - Marie-H Monfils
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712-1043, USA
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