Uncovering the molecular networks in brain synapses that are the substrate of learning and memory

How memory is stored in the brain is the central focus of our research. We see this problem at both the system level, to describe the neural networks that represent the memory, and at the cellular/molecular level, to describe the particular plasticity-determinant proteins on both sides of the synapse that lead to the long-term storage of information. We have taken a dramatic step forward with the articulation of a new theory of memory (see ref. 1) that focuses exclusively on the post-translational modification of proteins already present at the synapse as the molecular substrate for regulating synaptic weights, and a multi-layered positive feedback system to sustain these rapid changes in protein structure. Current studies in our laboratory are testing the implications of this new theory using a multi-level interdisciplinary approach.

e-mail Dr. Routtenberg
ph: 847.491.3628
fax: 847.491.3557

• Routtenberg A. (2008). Long-lasting memory from evanescent networks. Eur J Pharmacol. 585(1):60-3.

• Routtenberg A. (2008). The substrate for long-lasting memory: if not protein synthesis, then what? Neurobiol Learn Mem. 89(3):225-33.

• Rekart JL, Sandoval CJ, Bermudez-Rattoni F, Routtenberg A. (2007). Remodeling of hippocampal mossy fibers is selectively induced seven days after the acquisition of a spatial but not a cued reference memory task. Learn Mem. 14(6):416-21.

• Holahan MR, Honegger KS, Tabatadze N, Routtenberg A. (2007). GAP-43 gene expression regulates information storage. Learn Mem. 2007 14(6):407-15.

• Holahan MR, Honegger KS, Routtenberg A. (2007). Expansion and retraction of hippocampal mossy fibers during postweaning development: strain-specific effects of NMDA receptor blockade. Hippocampus. 17(1):58-67.

• Holahan MR, Routtenberg A. (2007). Post-translational synaptic protein modification as substrate for long-lasting, remote memory: an initial test. Hippocampus. 17(2):93-7.

• Rekart JL, Sandoval CJ, Routtenberg A. (2007). Learning-induced axonal remodeling: evolutionary divergence and conservation of two components of the mossy fiber system within Rodentia. Neurobiol Learn Mem. 87(2):225-35.

• Romano A, Freudenthal R, Merlo E, Routtenberg A. (2006). Evolutionarily-conserved role of the NF-kappaB transcription factor in neural plasticity and memory. Eur J Neurosci. 24(6):1507-16. Review.

• Holahan MR, Rekart JL, Sandoval J, Routtenberg A. (2006). Spatial learning induces presynaptic structural remodeling in the hippocampal mossy fiber system of two rat strains. Hippocampus.16(6):560-70.

• Rekart, J., Meiri, K. and Routtenberg, A. (2005) Hippocampal-dependent memory is impaired in heterozygous GAP-43 knockout mice. Hippocampus 15: 1-7.

• Rekart, J.L., Mesulam, M. and Routtenberg, A. (2004) Subfield-specific increase in brain growth protein in postmortem hippocampus of Alzheimer's patients. Neuroscience 126:579-84.

• Freudenthal, R. Romano, A. and Routtenberg, A. (2004) Role of the NF-kB transcription factor in long-term potentiation. Hippocampus,14:677-83.

Other Links:

• Northwestern University Department of Psychology