2010/01/01 by Keith Tully, Vadim Y. Bolshakov · 1 voice · 1 citation
Neuroscience · Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · #Neuroscience and Neuropharmacology Research #Memory and Neural Mechanisms #Receptor Mechanisms and Signaling
paper · pdf · doi:10.1186/1756-6606-3-15
openalex publication_date 2010/01/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/29
Changes in synaptic strength are believed to underlie learning and memory. We explore the idea that norepinephrine is an essential modulator of memory through its ability to regulate synaptic mechanisms. Emotional arousal leads to activation of the locus coeruleus with the subsequent release of norepineprine in the brain, resulting in the enhancement of memory. Norepinephrine activates both pre- and post-synaptic adrenergic receptors at central synapses with different functional outcomes, depending on the expression pattern of these receptors in specific neural circuitries underlying distinct behavioral processes. We review the evidence for noradrenergic modulation of synaptic plasticity with consideration of how this may contribute to the mechanisms of learning and memory.