Mechanisms Involved in Memory Processes: Alterations Induced by Psychostimulants?Targeting the Central AT1 Receptors

OCCHIEPPO, V.B.; BAIARDI, G.; MARCHESE, N.A.; BREGONZIO, C.; BASMADJIAN, M.

Psychiatry and Neuroscience Update: A Translational Approach

Springer International Publishing.

Año: 2017; p. 173 - 192

Learned experiences are indispensable for adaptation and survival of everyliving organism. The generation of a memory trace is an active physiological process which implies association and organization of the new impressionswith already stored ones. Therefore, memory is explained asactivity-dependent synaptic plasticity, involving electrophysiological, biochemical, and morphological changes in functional synapse.Throughout the different stages of information processing, emotion and memories interact to shape data encoding and retrieval. Dopamine plays akey role in the control of mood, fear, and anxiety, and modulates the biochemical processes of memory. Hence, more plastic and appropriate responses can be achieved to variable external demands.Among drugs of abuse worldwide consumed, psychostimulants areknown for their stimulant properties within the central nervous system.Monoaminergic neurotransmission elicited by amphetamine alters neuronalconnectivity in several brain areas; thus, its pharmacological actions can be extended to learning and memory processes. Evidence indicates acomplex scenario after psychostimulant administration where long-termmemory can be either impaired or enhanced, according to the experimental conditions.