The system consolidation model suggests that memories are initially stored in the hippocampus (HPC) (recent memory) and, over time, slowly consolidated within the neocortex for permanent storage (remote memory). This view has recently evolved with the demonstration that the early stages of consolidation depend upon coordinated activity of a network of brain regions including not only the HPC but also key subcortical structures. In this framework, neural activity in the ventral striatum (VS) has recently emerged as a fundamental event supporting spatial memory consolidation. What is still unclear is the temporal dynamic of VS involvement in memory consolidation. In analogy to what observed in the HPC, VS activity could be necessary only in the initial stages of memory storage (recent memory). Alternatively, it could be hypothesized that activity within this brain region might be needed for longer period to support neocortical memory consolidation and retrieval of remote memories.
To address this question we will investigate the temporal involvement of VS in spatial memory consolidation and retrieval. Using activity-dependent cell-labeling technology, combined with viral vector- based transgenic, anatomical, and pharmacogenetic strategies for circuit-specific manipulations, we will investigate the nature and dynamics of VS memory engram cells and the circuits for remote memory consolidation.
The world is getting older by the minute. With life expectancy increasing, so are aging populations. The number of people aged over 60 years has tripled since 1950. Every country is experiencing ageing population growth and will be affected proportionately by it.
The cause of most dementia is unknown, but the final stage of this disease usually means a loss of memory, reasoning, speech, and other cognitive functions. The risk of dementia increases sharply with age and, unless new strategies for prevention and management are developed, this syndrome is expected to place growing. Alzheimer disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia and accounted for two fifths and four fifths of all dementia cases. More recent analyses have estimated the worldwide number of people living with AD/dementia at between 27 million and 36 million.
Thus far, advances in the study of neuropsychiatric disorders and AD, in particular, have too often been lost in translation (Becker et al., 2010) in that these fields of research represent areas of high drug attrition (Kaitin et al., 2011) but they also are of great opportunity. Advancement in AD research can be achieved by linking new target evaluation and characterization to disease progression and drug discovery in order to provide a mechanism for preclinical optimization with clinical translation and appraisal in human disease. In this scenario, our research would represent another step forward in the improving of basic knowledge in the circuits underlying memory consolidation and recall. Moreover our findings could be relevant in developing new therapeutic strategies to ameliorate Alzheimer and dementia.
1) Becker RE, Greig NH. (2010) Lost in translation: neuropsychiatric drug development. Sci Transl Med. ;2(61)
2) Kaitin KI, Milne CP. (2011) A dearth of new meds. Sci Am.305(2):16