Updating of Fear Memories by Behavioral Interventions during Memory Reconsolidation

Abstract

Extinction training establishes extinction learning and, thus, inhibits conditioned fear responses. However, fear responses may return because extinction learning cannot affect memory trace that is the origin of fear. Exposure therapy, which is based on the extinction learning paradigm, is used to treat anxiety disorders. Relapses of anxiety disorders after exposure therapy have also been reported. Consequently, treatments, which can prevent the return of fear responses, are needed. Recently, a mechanism known as memory reconsolidation has been receiving much attention. Consolidated memory traces are destabilized after they have been retrieved. Those memory traces are stabilized again by means of the reconsolidation process. During reconsolidation, retrieved fear memory can be updated. Furthermore, recent studies have shown that extinction training during reconsolidation updates fear memory and prevents the return of fear responses. Further studies are required to determine the effects of reconsolidation interventions on anxiety disorders.