Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 31, 2025

A Prediction Error-driven Retrieval Procedure for Destabilizing and Rewriting Maladaptive Reward Memories in Hazardous Drinkers
Published on: January 5, 2018
[Recovery of Forgotten Memories: Modulation of Memory Recall by Brain Histamine System]
1Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University.
Abstract:
Even after memories fade they may persist latently in the brain. However, there are no clinically applicable methods for reactivating memory traces and promoting memory retrieval. In the brain histamine modulates learning and memory, sleep and wakefulness, feeding, drinking, and neuroendocrine functions. Animal studies demonstrated that histamine H3 receptor inverse agonists enhance histamine release in the brain and promote learning and memory. In particular, the H3 receptor inverse agonists induce recall of forgotten memories-possibly by facilitating reactivation of memory engram cells. Therefore, H3 receptors are a promising targets for treating cognitive dysfunction. While past clinical trials failed to find beneficial effects of H3 receptor inverse agonists on learning and memory, a recent study showed that inverse agonists enhance memory retrieval in a participant-dependent manner. This review describes the brain's histaminergic system and the modulation of learning and memory by histamine.
Related Concept Videos
Role of Hippocampus in Memory
Higher Mental Functions of Brain: Learning and Memory
Role of Neurotransmitters in Memory
Glutamate and Synaptic Plasticity
Glutamate, the brain's main excitatory neurotransmitter, is...
Amnesia
The severity and duration of memory loss vary depending on the type and underlying cause. Amnesia is classified into two main types: retrograde and anterograde.
Retrograde amnesia is marked by the loss of memories formed before the onset of the condition. Patients may recall distant past events but often forget those occurring shortly before the incident.
Anterograde...
Role of Amygdala in Memory
One of the...
Traumatic Memory

