Analyses of dynamism of neuronal ensembles in memory

2017 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project Area: Principles of memory dynamism elucidated from a diversity of learning systems
• Project/Area Number: 25115003
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research on Innovative Areas (Research in a proposed research area)
• Allocation Type: Single-year Grants
• Review Section: Biological Sciences
• Research Institution: Osaka University (2014-2017); Kyoto University (2013)
• Principal Investigator: Matsuo Naoki 大阪大学, 医学系研究科, 准教授 (10508956)
• Research Collaborator: KOBAYASHI Kyogo ; MOTOYAMA Mayumi
• Project Period (FY): 2013-06-28 – 2018-03-31
• Keywords: 記憶 / マウス

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Dynamism of memory is crucial for animals to adapt to ever-changing environments. However, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Thus, we studied the dynamism of neuronal ensembles in memory by using a combination of cutting edge modern tools including transgenic mice to manipulate specific active neuronal ensembles, behavioral analyses, opto/chemogenetics, and in vivo imaging of neuronal activity in the brain. We monitored the changes of neuronal ensembles when contextual fear memory was generalized or extinguished and found some underlying neuronal mechanisms.

Free Research Field

神経科学