Justin Kenny

Shipley Award Recipient - 2010

Abstract:

Learning in the presence of nicotine results in changes to the cellular and molecular processes that support the formation and storage of long-term memories.   These memories may contribute to context-evoked drug craving and seeking.  The consolidation of long-term memory requires a number of mechanisms, such as gene transcription. This project examined the signaling cascades and genetics involved in the memory enhancing effects of this addictive drug on contextual memories.