Title : Long-term memory acquisition and loss are dependent on PARP1- Erk2 synergism
Abstract:
We found a small piece in the puzzle of long-term memory. This finding identified the odd phenomenon implicating PARP1, a protein that initiates the repair of DNA breaks, in synaptic potentiation and in long-term memory formation during learning. The identified molecular mechanism underlying this phenomenon disclosed the link between the stimulation of receptors in the membrane and the expression of immediate early genes that are implicated in synaptic plasticity. This link is based on a synergism between PARP1 and Erk2 activation, causing localized chromatin remodeling which is required for histone modifications and activation of Erk targeted transcription factors of immediate early genes that are implicated in synaptic plasticity. Long-term memory formation in Aplysia and rodents was dependent on PARP1-Erk2 synergism including learning, pleasant and fearful memories.
