Neural mechanisms of extinction learning and retrieval.
Submitted by Gregory Quirk on
Title | Neural mechanisms of extinction learning and retrieval. |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2008 |
Authors | Quirk, GJ, Mueller, D |
Journal | Neuropsychopharmacology |
Volume | 33 |
Issue | 1 |
Pagination | 56-72 |
Date Published | 2008 Jan |
ISSN | 0893-133X |
Keywords | Animals, Behavior, Animal, Brain, Extinction, Psychological, Humans, Mental Recall, Neurons |
Abstract | Emotional learning is necessary for individuals to survive and prosper. Once acquired, however, emotional associations are not always expressed. Indeed, the regulation of emotional expression under varying environmental conditions is essential for mental health. The simplest form of emotional regulation is extinction, in which conditioned responding to a stimulus decreases when the reinforcer is omitted. Two decades of research on the neural mechanisms of fear conditioning have laid the groundwork for understanding extinction. In this review, we summarize recent work on the neural mechanisms of extinction learning. Like other forms of learning, extinction occurs in three phases: acquisition, consolidation, and retrieval, each of which depends on specific structures (amygdala, prefrontal cortex, hippocampus) and molecular mechanisms (receptors and signaling pathways). Pharmacological methods to facilitate consolidation and retrieval of extinction, for both aversive and appetitive conditioning, are setting the stage for novel treatments for anxiety disorders and addictions. |
DOI | 10.1038/sj.npp.1301555 |
Alternate Journal | Neuropsychopharmacology |
PubMed ID | 17882236 |
PubMed Central ID | PMC2668714 |
Grant List | GM008239 / GM / NIGMS NIH HHS / United States MH058883 / MH / NIMH NIH HHS / United States R01 MH058883 / MH / NIMH NIH HHS / United States R01 MH058883-12 / MH / NIMH NIH HHS / United States S06 GM008239 / GM / NIGMS NIH HHS / United States S06 GM008239-230015 / GM / NIGMS NIH HHS / United States |