Chapter 5 - Epigenetic Mechanisms in Learning and Memory

Abstract

In this chapter, we describe exciting recent findings implicating epigenetic molecular mechanisms in adult CNS function and experience-driven behavioral change. We parse our discussion of recent discoveries concerning the important role for epigenetic molecular mechanisms in behavioral learning and memory into four main sections. In the first section, we discuss the identities of the epigenetic molecular marks proposed to be involved in regulating learning and memory. In the second section, we describe how the epigenetic marks may be read out in neurons at the molecular level in order to drive functional change in the CNS. In the third section, we briefly discuss epigenetically based human disorders impacting learning and memory. In the final section, we discuss a theoretical framework for a role for epigenetic molecular mechanisms in learning and memory; how the marks are maintained and subsequently affect memory function at the cellular, circuit, and neural systems levels.