NMDA receptor-dependent synaptic reinforcement as a crucial process for memory consolidation

The hippocampal CA1 region is crucial for converting new memories into Long -term memories, a process believed to continue for week(s) after initial Le arning. By developing an inducible, reversible, and CA1-specific knockout t echnique, we could switch N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor function off or on in CA1 during the consolidation period. Our data indicate that memor y consolidation depends on the reactivation of the NMDA receptor, possibly to reinforce site-specific synaptic modifications to consolidate memory tra ces. Such a synaptic reinforcement process may also serve as a cellular mea ns by which the new memory is transferred from the hippocampus to the corte x for permanent storage.