Role of DNA methylation and the DNA methyltransferases in learning and memory

Michael J. Morris, Lisa M Monteggia

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

61 Scopus citations

Abstract

Dynamic regulation of chromatin structure in postmitotic neurons plays an important role in learning and memory. Methylation of cytosine nucleotides has historically been considered the strongest and least modifiable of epigenetic marks. Accumulating recent data suggest that rapid and dynamic methylation and demethylation of specific genes in the brain may play a fundamental role in learning, memory formation, and behavioral plasticity. The current review focuses on the emergence of data that support the role of DNA methylation and demethylation, and its molecular mediators in memory formation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)359-371
Number of pages13
JournalDialogues in Clinical Neuroscience
Volume16
Issue number3
StatePublished - 2014

Keywords

  • Epigenetics
  • Learning
  • Synaptic plasticity
  • behavior

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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