Enzyme inhibitor wipes out unhappy memories

A group of neurologists have been studying the role a particular enzyme plays in creating memories, saying that blocking the enzyme could offer a new approach to treating post-traumatic stress disorders as well as chronic pain. The enzyme works as a "continuous motor" strengthening bonds between neurons, a key function in the creation of long-term memories.

To test their approach, the neurologists created an aversion in rats to an unsavory snack, and then injected an inhibitor. The rats forgot their aversion following therapy. Todd Sacktor, a professor of neurology at the State University of New York Downstate Medical Center in New York City, says the approach appears to completely wipe the brain's hard drive of the memory.

- read the Scientific American article on their work

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