Event

Melatonin and Molecular Clockworks as Temporal Modulators of Learning and Memory

Oliver Rawashdeh, PhD
Institute of Anatomy III, Cellular and Molecular Anatomy; Goethe University; Frankfurt, Germany

Memory processes (acquisition, consolidation and retrieval) are modulated in a daytime-dependent manner. While the circadian system is involved in the temporal gating of long-term memory processing, the principal mechanisms behind this regulation are poorly understood. How is temporal information from the circadian system influencing memory processing? The circadian regulated neuro-hormone melatonin, known to disseminate temporal information through restricted nighttime synthesis and release, is involved in shaping day/night differences in memory performance across species. Notably, melatonin influences long-term potentiation and memory consolidation for nighttime acquisition. Here we provide novel insights on how melatonin can shape temporal differences in memory processing by functioning as a Zeitgeber (German for time-giver) rhythmically gating molecular clockworks coupled to memory-relevant signaling.

Liz Marshall
Email: eam6@buffalo.edu
Phone: 829-5219