Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) Chaperones Are Effector Genes Mediating Long-Term Memory Consolidation

Purpose: We investigated Nr4a effector genes following a hippocampus dependent learning task using a dominant mouse model of Nr4a. Method: We performed total RNA sequencing after training for hippocampus-dependent memory from Nr4ADN and control littermates Results: Using an unbiased analysis of gene expression after training for hippocampus-dependent memory, we found that Nr4a transcription factors regulate expression of specific effector genes encoding endoplasmic reticulum (ER) chaperones that drive protein folding, enabling membrane proteins to more efficiently traffic to the cell surface. Conclusion: This study identified the effector genes of Nr4a transcription factors involved in learning and memory. Overall design: Dorsal hippocampus mRNA profiles of 2-4 months old male Nr4ADN and control littermates