The endocannabinoid system: a key modulator of stress effects on memory

As mentioned above, a large amount of evidence indicates that the endocannabinoid system is crucially involved in the modulation of memory consolidation for stressful experiences (Akirav, 2011; Campolongo et al, 2009; Kano et al, 2009; Marsicano et al, 2009; Wotjak, 2005). Indeed previous findings from our laboratory have demonstrated that CB1 receptor activation within the BLA enhances memory consolidation. In particular, the cannabinoid agonist WIN55,212-2, bilaterally infused into the BLA immediately after inhibitory avoidance training, enhanced memory consolidation. Conversely, the CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 administered after training into the BLA dosedependently impaired 48-h inhibitory avoidance retention (Campolongo et al, 2009). Based on these previous findings we hypothesized that after an aversive experience endocannabinoids might be released within the BLA in order to modulate the better storage of emotionally salient events.