Multiple repressive mechanisms in the hippocampus during memory formation

Abstract

Memory consolidation by gene suppression Storing a persistent memory in the brain involves dynamic gene regulation. However, our knowledge of the target genes controlled during memory formation is limited. Cho et al. used RNA sequencing and ribosome profiling to compare transcription and translational levels in the mouse hippocampus before and after memory formation. Under basal conditions, there was an unexpected translational repression of ribosomal protein-coding genes. Early after learning, specific genes were translationally repressed. Later, suppression of a group of genes resulted from the inhibition of estrogen receptor alpha signaling. Thus, suppression mechanisms in the hippocampus appear to play a major role during memory consolidation. Science , this issue p. 82