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Memory editing from science fiction to clinical practice

Author

Listed:
  • Elizabeth A. Phelps

    (Harvard University
    Nathan Kline Institute)

  • Stefan G. Hofmann

    (Boston University)

Abstract

Science fiction notions of altering problematic memories are starting to become reality as techniques emerge through which unique memories can be edited. Here we review memory-editing research with a focus on improving the treatment of psychopathology. Studies highlight two windows of memory vulnerability: initial storage, or consolidation; and re-storage after retrieval, or reconsolidation. Techniques have been identified that can modify memories at each stage, but translating these methods from animal models to humans has been challenging and implementation into clinical therapies has produced inconsistent benefits. The science of memory editing is more complicated and nuanced than fiction, but its rapid development holds promise for future applications.

Suggested Citation

  • Elizabeth A. Phelps & Stefan G. Hofmann, 2019. "Memory editing from science fiction to clinical practice," Nature, Nature, vol. 572(7767), pages 43-50, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nature:v:572:y:2019:i:7767:d:10.1038_s41586-019-1433-7
    DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1433-7
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    Cited by:

    1. Mohith M. Varma & Shengzi Zeng & Laura Singh & Emily A. Holmes & Jingyun Huang & Man Hey Chiu & Xiaoqing Hu, 2024. "A systematic review and meta-analysis of experimental methods for modulating intrusive memories following lab-analogue trauma exposure in non-clinical populations," Nature Human Behaviour, Nature, vol. 8(10), pages 1968-1987, October.

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