The Process of Memory Reconsolidation - 1581 Words

In recent years, much debate and research has occurred over the process of memory reconsolidation. Understanding the processes that underlie memory formation retrieval and storage is key to understanding and guiding treatment for patients with conditions such as posttraumatic stress disorder. This essay discusses the processes of consolidation and how that impacts on reconsolidation and the implications of this knowledge on patients suffering posttraumatic stress disorder. Much psychological research suggests that new memories require time to stabilize and transfer to long-term memory and that these newly acquired memories are disposed to to interference by competing stimuli. Memory consolidation is the processes involved in the stabilization of a long-term memory after it’s initial acquisition (Dudai, 2004). Consolidation is described by two distinct theories: synaptic consolidation, which transpires in the first few hours after learning and systems learning where memories are stabilized over a period of weeks to years (Dudai, 2004). Synaptic consolidation suggests that memory can exists in two ways, short term and long term. Short term memories must either transfer to long term memory or be lost (Bramham Messaoudi, 2005). Synaptic consolidation occurs quickly, in the first few hours following the encoding of a new stimulus (Bramham Messaoudi, 2005). Reverberating neural activity in closed circuits allows memories of new experiences to be stored in the short termShow MoreRelatedThe Curent Understanding of the Neurobiology of Memory Reconsolidation and Its Implications for Psychology1863 Words   |  7 Pagesneurobiology of memory reconsolidation and its implications for psychology. This paper will specifically focus on the molecular mechanisms of reconsolidation and research relating to fear memories and using propranolol and D-cycloserine as a treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder. Memory consolidation is the process by which memories are stabilised after being acquired. Consolidation studies have trad itionally focused on the hippocampus and systems consolidation, where short term memories become longRead MoreUnderlying Neurobiological Processes1706 Words   |  7 Pagesin the literature that memories can generally be defined in terms of time (Nader, Schafe LeDoux, 2000). Memory is sensitive to disruption soon after learning as it is in a labile state of short-term memory (STM). Conversely, memory enters a stable form and is less sensitive to such disruptions in long-term memory (LTM) at a later stage after learning (Nader et al.). Research has argued that the process in which labile new memories transform into stable long-lasting memories is known as consolidationRead MoreThe Theory of Reconsolidation753 Words   |  3 PagesTheory of Reconsolidation - What is it and how can it impact on our lives? Learning is a very important aspect of humans and creatures alike. Not only is it essential to the survival and adaption into this world but it also defines who we are as individuals (Schiller et al, 2010; Tronson Taylor, 2007). Memories from past experiences shape the people that we are today. A crucial element to learning is memory, without it we would not be able to retain information. The process of memory is very distinctRead MoreThe Function Of A Memory1422 Words   |  6 Pagescapacity to form memory in face of stressful stimuli is an essential adaptive behaviour that enables organisms to respond rapidly and effectively to similar demands1. The stress response is largely mediated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis (HPA) coupled with the release of catecholamines through adrenergic neural discharges1. These physiological mechanisms activate downstream pathways that stimulate metabotropic alterations in neural networks, resulting in long-term memory formation1.R ead MoreThe retrieval of a memory can initiate processes in our brain that actively consolidate and1100 Words   |  5 PagesThe retrieval of a memory can initiate processes in our brain that actively consolidate and strengthen the memory trace, a process known as memory reconsolidation. Memories retrieved are thought to increase their stability once they undergo the process of consolidation. Retrieval of a memory trace may cause another liable phase to require more processing to keep the memory stable after retrieval; the brain systemically acquires cellular mechanisms to initiate a new round of protein synthesis thatRead MoreTaking a Look at Memory Consolidation1464 Words   |  6 Pagespreviously heralded definition of memory consolidation, an influx of research addressing various theories of; consolidation, reconsolidation and potential clinical implications have surfaced. This essay aims to conglomerate the current understanding of memory reconsolidation, furthermore addressi ng the resonance upon clinical psychology. Neuroscience widely recognised that memories undertake the process of consolidation (Nader Einarsson, 2010). When memories are nascent, they are prone to interferenceRead MoreThe Importance Of Protein Degradation783 Words   |  4 Pages(UPS) and the consolidation and reconsolidation of long-term fear memories. This research was necessary because, while research had been done linking protein degradation to synaptic plasticity, no study had been performed to analyze the role of UPS in the amygdala, where long-term fear memories are believed to be stored. Additionally, prior research had led to conflicting reports of the importance of protein degradation in consolidation as opposed to reconsolidation, which the authors intended toRead MoreThe Accuracy Of An Individual s Memory1506 Words   |  7 Pagesreconstructive memory where we piece together bits of stored information that seems real and accurate. The accuracy of an individual’s memory comes into question as it could lea d to wrongful conviction. Some factors affecting accuracy of eyewitness reports include confirmation bias, misinformation effect and influence of violence and anxiety. The first part of the essay will explain these factors; the second part will discuss the ability to retrieve information from our long-term memory. EyewitnessRead MoreEssay about How Essential Is Memory to Us?934 Words   |  4 PagesEssay How essential is memory to us? Why is this term highly verifying to people in the world? Memory is a being’s power to remember things and retain information from the past. Human beings are encountered by this process of remembrance for eternity- throughout their lifetime. It is a key element for an individual, which doesn’t have an authentic origin. Memories can be portrayed in many unique ways, such as emotionally, spiritually or mentally. A person may have memories of dead loved ones, childhood;Read MoreThe Standardized Extract Of Ginkgo Biloba761 Words   |  4 Pagesinfluencing cellular mechanisms hidden behind these multiple effects (Walesiuk and Braszko, 2007). There are many elements that represent emotional experiences, like excitement or stress duration, intensity and chronicity, known to influence severely on memory and cognition (Lupien et al., 2007). Stress occurs during hazardous conditions and activates the sympathetic nervous system which causes immediate fight and flight response by releasing epinephrine and nor epinephrine, and the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal