Re-exposures in the Dark Cycle Promote Attenuation of Fear Memory: Role of the Circadian Cycle and Glucocorticoids

It has been shown that a previously consolidated memory can incorporate either new external informa-tion or a novel internal emotional state following a labile state induced by retrieval. This updating process allows editing unwanted fear memory, leading to the reduction of the fear response. Memory can be modulated by the circadian cycle. Considering that rodents are more active during the night, expressing less fearful behavior, we investigated whether fear memory can be updated when reactivated during the dark cycle. We found that rats expressed lower freezing levels during a single retrieval session in the dark cycle, but not in the test. However, three retrieval sessions in the dark cycle were able to update fear memory, reducing freezing response in the test performed in the light cycle. This effect was blocked when the glucocorticoid synthesis inhibitor metyrapone was administered before retrieval. This approach opens new avenues to explore interventions that consider the circa-dian cycle in the treatment of fear memories based on non-pharmacological interventions.(c) 2022 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Previously consolidated memory can incorporate new information or emotional states after a labile state induced by retrieval. Fear memory can be updated during the dark cycle, reducing fear response. This effect is influenced by the administration of a glucocorticoid synthesis inhibitor.