Memory Synthesis Essay

Molecular mechanisms such as synaptic transmission is essential to the process of learning, memory consolidation, and reconsolidation. When a significant event occurs, memories are learned and stored by consolidation. These memories can then be retrieved and returned. You could compare the process of consolidation and reconsolidation to a simple action, like taking milk out of the fridge for example. After returning from the store you place the milk in your fridge where it is unharmed and at a stable temperature, until you go to make some cereal. The retrieval of the milk is similar to the recall of memory; You have the milk and are able to use it to your liking but in this position, it become fragile. You could spill it, not put it back in the right place, or even throw the entire carton away. By not returning the milk to it’s original place, you are possibly modifying or disrupting the memory …show more content…
(Misanin, 1968) They separated the rats into five groups and placed them into lick chambers where they were allowed to make 110 licks before the conditioned white noise was played along with a 1.3 ma foot shock. Groups 2-5 were transferred out of the chamber for 24 hours while Group 1 was then given the ECS before being transferred out as well. On the second day group 1 and 5 were given no treatment, group 2 was given the white noise and ECS, group 3 was given only the white noise, and group 4 was only given the ECS. By using the rate of licks after treatment as a measurement of fear they found that ECS during consolidation (group 1) and reconsolidation (groups 2 and 4) caused a lower fear response (greater lick rate.) Group 3’s reconsolidation phase was not disrupted with ECS and in result had the lowest lick rate after only being presented with the white noise supporting a