Epigenetic Changes in the Amygdala Affect Fear Memory
Author Information
Author(s): Melissa S. Monsey, Kristie T. Ota, Irene F. Akingbade, Ellie S. Hong, Glenn E. Schafe
Primary Institution: Yale University
Hypothesis
Are histone acetylation and DNA methylation critical for auditory Pavlovian fear conditioning and associated synaptic plasticity in the lateral amygdala?
Conclusion
Histone acetylation enhances fear memory consolidation, while DNA methylation impairs it in the lateral amygdala.
Supporting Evidence
- Histone H3 acetylation increased significantly after fear conditioning.
- DNMT3A expression was regulated in an associative manner in LA neurons.
- Intra-LA infusion of TSA enhanced long-term memory consolidation.
- Inhibition of DNMT activity impaired memory consolidation.
- Co-application of TSA rescued LTP deficits induced by DNMT inhibition.
Takeaway
This study shows that certain chemical changes in the brain help us remember scary things better, while other changes can make those memories worse.
Methodology
Rats underwent auditory fear conditioning followed by Western blotting to assess histone acetylation and DNMT expression.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in interpretation of results due to reliance on specific pharmacological agents.
Limitations
The study primarily focuses on male rats, which may limit generalizability to females.
Participant Demographics
Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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