Neural circuit mechanisms of memory destabilization
Memories can be rendered rewritable through a phenomenon called reconsolidation. The all-limiting step in this memory re-evaluation process is its initiation; the retrieval-dependent destabilization of the memory. However, the understanding of how a stable memory can be switched into a vulnerable but modifiable state is mostly in its infancy. Therefore, I aim to investigate the neural circuit mechanisms underlying retrieval-induced memory destabilization in the tractable fruit fly brain. 

A prerequisite to investigate the neural mechanisms involved in destabilizing a memory is to know where the learned information is stored and to have access to the associated network. Olfactory memories in flies are stored in the mushroom body as changes between odor coding principle cells and valence coding output neurons. The cell specific genetic access to the 2500 neurons of each mushroom body allows to manipulate and monitor the activity of all components of the network in behaving animals. Recently I established a paradigm that allows to study the mechanisms underlying memory reconsolidation in this numerically simple brain structure. First results indicate that I have identified specific neurons which are crucial for destabilizing reward memory. Starting from these findings I will study the neural circuit mechanisms involved in memory destabilization. 

I aim to generate an understanding of
1)	the neural circuits underlying memory destabilization 
2)	how restrictive conditions gate reconsolidation
3)	the role of targeted protein degradation in the destabilization of memory

The work will establish the first mechanistic insight into how memories are destabilized, how a destabilized memory is represented in the brain and how boundary conditions prevent the initiation of memory reconsolidation.