Sleep-dependent reconsolidation after memory destabilization in starlings

Abstract

Reconsolidation theory describes memory formation as an ongoing process that cycles between labile and stable states. Though sleep is critical for the initial consolidation of a memory, there has been little evidence that sleep facilitates reconsolidation. We now demonstrate in two experiments that a sleep-consolidated memory can be destabilized if the memory is reactivated by retrieval. The destabilized memory, which can be impaired if an interference task is encountered after, but not before, the memory is reactivated, is then reconsolidated after sleep. In two additional experiments, we provide evidence suggesting that the learning of the interference task promotes the subsequent sleep-dependent enhancement of the original memory. These results provide novel insight into the complex mechanisms of memory processing, as well as critical evidence supporting the view that long-term memory formation involves a dynamic process of sleep-dependent consolidation, use-dependent destabilization, and sleep-dependent reconsolidation.

Document Details

Document Type
Pub Defense Publication
Publication Date
Aug 06, 2018
Source ID
10.1038/s41467-018-05518-5

Entities

People

  • Daniel Margoliash
  • Howard C Nusbaum
  • Timothy P Brawn

Organizations

  • Office of Naval Research Global

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Biology
  • Psychology

Readers

  • Circadian Sleep-Wake Regulation and Chronobiology
  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.
  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Cognitive Aging in the Guam and Border Populations Affected by Alzheimer's Disease and Tau-Associated Dementias.