The human brain is exquisitely adept at linking seemingly
random details into a cohesive memory that can trigger myriad associations—some
good, some not so good. For recovering addicts and individuals suffering from
post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), unwanted memories can be devastating.
Former meth addicts, for instance, report intense drug cravings triggered by
associations with cigarettes, money, even gum (used to relieve dry mouth), pushing
them back into the addiction they so desperately want to leave.
Now, for the first time, scientists from the Florida campus
of The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI) have been able to erase dangerous
drug-associated memories in mice and rats without affecting other more benign
memories.