Simeonov, Louise; (2024) The Formation and Reconsolidation of Aversive and Appetitive Memories. Doctoral thesis (Ph.D), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

This thesis investigates experimental methods for modifying appetitive and aversive memories, with the ultimate aim of informing new treatments for disorders that may stem from maladaptive memories, such as substance abuse and trauma-related disorders. Chapter 1 of this thesis presents an overview of the relevant literature. Memory reconsolidation offers an opportunity to modify previously consolidated memories. The process is triggered by the presentation of retrieval cues. Chapter 2 of this thesis investigates a key boundary condition of memory reactivation: retrieval length. The results indicated a brief retrieval procedure may be best able to destabilise associative memories. This study (Simeonov et al., 2022a) has helped elucidate optimal memory reactivation requirements and potential reasons why some reminder procedures in reconsolidation research may produce null results. Synchronous neural theta oscillations have been proposed to organise neural input from various sites, binding different aspects of memories. Chapter 3 of this thesis investigates whether theta frequency sensory flicker can improve encoding of emotional associative memories, with the hope that in the future we might utilise this method to enhance memory retention. Chapter 4 of this thesis focuses on naturalistically acquired food reward learning. The study utilises electroencephalography to investigate differences in ERPs during a food go/no-go task. The findings from this study highlight how ERP components can distinguish between high preference food, low preference food and neutral images. Chapter 5 investigates indices of learning in an appetitive conditioning task. As well as explicit measures, the study found pupil size and the ERP component LPP are sensitive physiological measures of appetitive conditioning. It’s hoped the findings of this study will aid the design of future appetitive conditioning studies. However, the findings also highlight the difficulties of measuring implicit responses to appetitive conditioning. Finally, Chapter 6 gives a summary of findings and discusses them with reference to the existing literature. Limitations, and suggestions for future research are also given.

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