Scientists Discover Beta-Blocker That Erases Traumatic Memories
Bad memories stick better than good ones. Now, Dutch researchers have discovered that a beta-blocker called Propranolol can erase painful experiences from the memory, stemming from violence, war, accidents and abuse. The drug opens up new avenues for curing PTSD and other emotional disorders.
In 2005, scientists found a "fear gene" that helps distinguish between people who have no fear and those who are afraid of everything. Then in the fall of 2008, researchers discovered the glue that keeps fearful memories stuck in the brain, a protein called Beta-Catenin that helps long-term memories solidify.
Now, the Dutch team has shown that Propranolol seems to prevent fear from returning: it erases the traumatic memory.
Some ethicists have expressed concerns and question whether treatments that alter memory also begin to alter what it means to be human.
Nature Magazine has supplementary information on the Dutch findings.
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