The gap between episodic memory and experiment: Can c-fos expression replace recognition testing?

The effort to identify the neural substrate of episodic recall, though ambi tious, lacks experimental support. By considering the data on c-fos activat ion by novel and familiar stimuli in recognition studies, we illustrate how inadequate experimental designs permit alternative interpretations. We str ess that interpretation of c-fos expression changes should be supported by adequate recognition tests.