Stress Effects on the Brain System Underlying Explicit Memory

Abstract

This chapter reviews the literature on the development of event memory and the brain system that underlies it. It describes what is known about the explicit memory system and its development, as well as areas in which more could be understood about the development of the system. It reviews the literature on effects of stress on the development of the explicit memory system, and proposes ways in which timing and plasticity could play a role in long-term effects of stress on the brain basis of memory.

An investigation of the relations between stress and prospective memory

“…This interpretation is consistent with the circadian rhythm of stress, with the induction of GCs potentially exhibiting negative effects in the morning, when baseline levels of the stress hormone is high, and possibly revealing positive effects in the evening, when basal concentrations are low (Het et al, 2005;Kirschbaum et al, 1996;Lupien, Gillin, & Hauger, 1999;Lupien & Lepage, 2001;Lupien et al, 2002). Lending support to the notion that stress may affect memory are studies showing that circulating stress hormones differentially influence the functioning of the brain structures involved with memory (Arnsten, 2009;Belanoff et al, 2001;Carver & Cluver, 2009;Ferris & Stolberg, 2010;Lupien et al, 2007). For example, the hippocampus contains high densities of GC receptor sites, and therefore, it is highly sensitive to the levels of circulating stress hormones (Belanoff et al, 2001;Carver, & Cluver, 2009;Ferris & Stolberg, 2010;Lupien & McEwen, 1997;Lupien et al, 2007;Payne et al, 2002).…”

“…Lending support to the notion that stress may affect memory are studies showing that circulating stress hormones differentially influence the functioning of the brain structures involved with memory (Arnsten, 2009;Belanoff et al, 2001;Carver & Cluver, 2009;Ferris & Stolberg, 2010;Lupien et al, 2007). For example, the hippocampus contains high densities of GC receptor sites, and therefore, it is highly sensitive to the levels of circulating stress hormones (Belanoff et al, 2001;Carver, & Cluver, 2009;Ferris & Stolberg, 2010;Lupien & McEwen, 1997;Lupien et al, 2007;Payne et al, 2002). Consequently, lasting stress can potentially lead to neuronal degeneration, inefficient glucose utilization, impaired synaptic proficiency, and decreased overall volume in this area (Ferris & Stolberg, 2010;Lupien et al, 2005;Sapolsky, 2000).…”