Prevot et al (2019)

Question 1

GABA

Answer 1

An inhibitory neurotransmitter, plays a key role in memory formation

It appears that this neurotransmitter inhibits neural activity both in the hippocampus and in the frontal lobe.

This inhibition of neural activity allows us to increase our cognitive load - that is, how we are able to use our working memory.

When GABA levels are low, intrusive thoughts may make it difficult for us to concentrate and lay down new memories.

Question 2

What does Prevot et al (2019) investigate?

Answer 2

Investigates whether the manipulation of GABA levels could have a positive influence on impaired memory function in an animal model.

Question 3

Hypothesis of Prevot et al (2019)

Answer 3

Using an agonist which activates the α5-GABA receptor sites in the hippocampus would increase the inhibition of neural activity which would then lead to improved memory function.

Question 4

Sample of Prevot et al (2019)

Answer 4

The researchers used a sample of mice that suffered from memory impairment as a result of chronic stress - and older mice that demonstrated memory impairment.

Question 5

Results of Prevot et al (2019)

Answer 5

The drug treatment group performed almost as well as the mice that had not been chronically stressed.

Older mice treated with the drug showed significantly higher levels of performance on the task than does those that received the placebo.

In both cases, there was an improvement in spatial working memory in the mice that were given the GABA agonist.