Psychophysiology of Delayed Extinction and Reconsolidation in Humans
Abstract
Animal research suggests that reactivation (retrieval) of a consolidated memory can return it to a labile state from which it must be restabilized in order to persist. This stabilization process has been termed reconsolidation , and various behavioral and pharmacological interventions have been found to modify or block it. The aim of this project is to create an experimental assay in the form of an optimal Pavlovian differential fear-conditioning paradigm, within which the relative strengths of various pharmacological and behavioral, reconsolidation-blocking interventions can be tested. Thus far, we have completed data collection for two groups: pharmacological, i.e., propranolol, and behavioral, i.e., delayed extinction. Data from the propranolol group demonstrate that participants show differential conditioning learning on Day 1, supporting the validity of our modified fear-conditioning paradigm. However, propranolol administration at the time of memory reactivation failed to decrease the fear memory, as indexed by skin conductance. These findings are communicated in a manuscript (attached), which will be submitted for publication to Psychophysiology later this month. Data from the behavioral group are presently being analyzed and prepared for publication. We are presently recruiting participants to receive a new candidate pharmacological intervention, mifepristone (RU-486), within the same fear-conditioning paradigm.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 2014
- Accession Number
- ADA602356
Entities
People
- Scott P. Orr
Organizations
- Massachusetts General Hospital