Stability of Retrieved Memory: Inverse Correlation with Trace Dominance

TLDR

Memory consolidation stabilizes traces, yet evidence indicates that retrieval can trigger reconsolidation, though studies differ on whether retrieved memories become temporarily susceptible to consolidation blockers. The study examines whether the stability of retrieved memories is inversely related to the extent to which those memories guide behavior, using conditioned taste aversion in rats and fear conditioning in medaka fish. The inverse correlation between retrieved memory stability and behavioral control may explain inconsistent reconsolidation results reported in the literature.

Abstract

In memory consolidation, the memory trace stabilizes and becomes resistant to certain amnesic agents. The textbook account is that for any memorized item, consolidation starts and ends just once. However, evidence has accumulated that upon activation in retrieval, the trace may reconsolidate. Whereas some authors reported transient renewed susceptibility of retrieved memories to consolidation blockers, others could not detect it. Here, we report that in both conditioned taste aversion in the rat and fear conditioning in the medaka fish, the stability of retrieved memory is inversely correlated with the control of behavior by that memory. This result may explain some conflicting findings on reconsolidation of activated memories.