The role of the benzodiazepine-GABA system in the memory processes of the day-old chick

This series of experiments investigated the effect of the benzodiazepine di azepam on memory formation in day-old chicks trained on a single-trial, pas sive-avoidance task. The findings indicate that diazepam has a dose-specifi c and time-dependent effect on memory processes. A 0.125-mg/kg dose of diaz epam administered immediately after training led to amnesia in these subjec ts only after 30 min following learning. Pretreatment with bicuculline and flumazenil were effective in ameliorating the memory deficits caused by dia zepam, and consolidated memory function in saline-treated controls followin g strong and weak aversant training. These findings suggest that benzodiaze pine effects on memory are mediated by their effects on arousal, possibly b y the release of noradrenaline, which is critical to the establishment of l ong-term memory. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Inc.