Memory traces unbound

Abstract

The idea that new memories are initially 'labile' and sensitive to disruption before becoming permanently stored in the wiring of the brain has been dogma for >100 years. Recently, we have revisited the hypothesis that reactivation of a consolidated memory can return it to a labile, sensitive state - in which it can be modified, strengthened, changed or even erased! The data generated from some of the best-described paradigms in memory research, in conjunction with powerful neurobiological technologies, have provided striking support for a very dynamic neurobiological basis of memory, which is beginning to overturn the old dogma.