Class 18 Memory

Question 1

What is classical conditioning and how do we study it in the fruit fly?

Answer 1

Classical Condition involves the pairing of US and CS

We can conduct classical conditioning in the Drosophilia(fly) by using two diffent odors and viewong the response of one of the odors and adding an electric shock to one of them.

Question 2

What evedince supports the role for cAMP in signaling memory?

Answer 2

Many ‘stupid’ fly mutants have mutations in the cAMP pathway.
Some mutants have high cAMP levels, orther have low cAMP levels.

Question 3

Why are Aplysia a good system for studying memory?

Answer 3

Gill-siphon withdrawl reflex can be habituated or sensitized.

Gill withdrawl reflex in Aplysia

Question 4

What is the difference between short-term and long term memories?

Answer 4

Short and long-term memories require cAMP signaling

Short term memory requires PKA activity in the sensory neuron

Long-term memory requires CREB-dependent protein synthesis

Short term memories are labile, and DO NOT require protein synthesis
Long term memories are stable and require CREB-dependent protein synthesis.