Memory formation, consolidation and transformation

Memory formation is a highly dynamic process. In this review we discuss traditional views of memory and offer some ideas about the nature of memory formation and transformation. We argue that memory traces are transformed over time in a number of ways, but that understanding these transformations requires careful analysis of the various representations and linkages that result from an experience. These transformations can involve: (1) the selective strengthening of only some, but not all, traces as a function of synaptic rescaling, or some other process that can result in selective survival of some traces; (2) the integration (or assimilation) of new information into existing knowledge stores; (3) the establishment of new linkages within existing knowledge stores; and (4) the up-dating of an existing episodic memory. We relate these ideas to our own work on reconsolidation to provide some grounding to our speculations that we hope will spark some new thinking in an area that is in need of transformation.

► Understanding memory formation requires analysis of the various representations that result from experience.
► Memory is not just formed, but also reformed, or transformed, after initial encoding.
► Transformation includes changes in both the strength (or weakness) or memory traces, and the updating of existing traces through the integration of new information.
► Memories are inherently dynamic, changing both with the passage of time, and as a function of new experiences.