A memory transcriptome time course reveals essential long-term memory transcription factors.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Molecular Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• Long-term memory (LTM) formation depends on protein synthesis, but the precise transcriptional mechanisms are not fully understood.
• Understanding the genetic regulation of memory is crucial for deciphering cognitive processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the transcriptional landscape during long-term memory formation in Drosophila.
• To identify specific genes and transcription factors involved in the consolidation and retrieval of LTM.

Main Methods:

• Performed a time-course transcriptome analysis in Drosophila melanogaster during courtship conditioning.
• Utilized single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) to analyze CREB-activated cells.
• Conducted a loss-of-function genetic screen for identified memory trace genes.

Main Results:

• Identified a mushroom body-specific transcriptional memory trace activated during memory consolidation.
• Detected a persistent transcriptional response in mushroom body neurons post-LTM consolidation and retrieval.
• Found 16 genes whose disruption impaired LTM, including two key transcription factors, Hr38 and sr, activated by training and essential for LTM.

Conclusions:

• The study elucidates the transcriptional response underlying LTM formation in Drosophila.
• Identified Hr38 and sr as critical transcription factors that regulate the transcriptional memory trace.
• Provides a deeper understanding of the molecular basis of memory consolidation and retrieval.