Your browser version may not work well with NCBI's Web applications. More information here...
1: Science. 2007 Nov 16;318(5853):1144-6.
Related Articles, Links
Click here to read Click here to read
Melatonin suppresses nighttime memory formation in zebrafish.

Rawashdeh O, de Borsetti NH, Roman G, Cahill GM.

Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, 369 Science and Research II, Houston, TX 77204-5001, USA.

Memory processes are modulated by the biological clock, although the mechanisms are unknown. Here, we report that in the diurnal zebrafish both learning and memory formation of an operant conditioning paradigm occur better during the day than during the night. Melatonin treatment during the day mimics the nighttime suppression of memory formation. Training in constant light improves nighttime memory formation while reducing endogenous melatonin concentrations. Treatment with melatonin receptor antagonists at night dramatically improves memory. Pinealectomy also significantly improves nighttime memory formation. We adduce that melatonin is both sufficient and necessary for poor memory formation during the night.

Publication Types:
PMID: 18006748 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]