Interleukin-1 beta-induced memory reconsolidation impairment is mediated by a reduction in glutamate release and zif268 expression and alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone prevented these effects

• The immune system is an important modulator of learning, memory and neural plasticity. Interleukin 1 13 (IL-1 beta), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, significantly affects several cognitive processes. Previous studies by our group have demonstrated that intrahippocampal administration of IL-1 beta impairs reconsolidation of contextual fear memory. This effect was reversed by the melanocortin alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). The mechanisms underlying the effect of IL-1 beta on memory reconsolidation have not yet been established. Therefore, we examined the effect of IL-1 beta on glutamate release, ERK phosphorylation and the activation of the transcription factor zinc finger- 268 (zif268) during reconsolidation. Our results demonstrated that IL-1 beta induced a significant decrease of glutamate release after reactivation of the fear memory and this effect was related to calcium concentration in hippocampal synaptosomes. IL-1 beta also reduced ERK phosphorylation and zif268 expression in the hippocampus. Central administration of a-MSH prevented the decrease in glutamate release, ERK phosphorylation and zif268 expression induced by IL-1 beta. Our results establish possible mechanisms involved in the detrimental effect of IL-1 beta on memory reconsolidation and also indicate that a-MSH may exert a beneficial modulatory role in preventing IL-1 beta effects.

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Medicinska och farmaceutiska grundvetenskaper -- Immunologi inom det medicinska området (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Basic Medicine -- Immunology in the medical area (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta)

Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH)

Memory reconsolidation

Glutamate release

zif268

ERK

Ca2

Hippocampus

Publikations- och innehållstyp

ref (ämneskategori)

art (ämneskategori)