# Dopaminergic circuit modulation of learning and arousal-mediated memory enhancement

> **NIH NIH R01** · SCRIPPS FLORIDA · 2020 · $434,750

## Abstract

Project Summary
Learning and memory are modulated by dopaminergic circuits, which convey valence and/or arousal signals.
This proposal will examine how discrete dopaminergic circuits modulate learning and memory and neuronal
plasticity in memory-encoding brain regions in Drosophila. Specifically, it will disentangle the roles of
dopaminergic circuits that convey positive valence signals, negative valence signals, and valence-independent
arousal signals. In vivo imaging experiments will examine how these dopaminergic neurons drive discrete
patterns of plasticity in the mushroom body and downstream valence-coding output neurons that mediate
approach and avoidance behavior. Complementary behavioral and optogenetic manipulation experiments will
decipher how each of these neuronal subsets modulates arousal, valence, and memory strength. These
studies will apply the large genetic toolkit and experimental throughput of the fly toward developing a more
comprehensive understanding of how learning and memory alter the flow of information through the brain, to
ultimately engage novel behaviors (e.g., conditioned approach/avoidance) following learning.
Understanding how memories are encoded in the brain and disrupted in brain disorders is a prerequisite to the
rational design of treatments for memory impairment. Results of the present studies will provide guideposts for
future research into the molecular biology of memory formation across multiple model organisms, as
dopaminergic circuits regulate arousal and memory across taxa. The project will support our long-term goal of
understanding of memory down to the single-cell and subcellular levels, contributing to the knowledge base
necessary for the rational development of novel treatments for memory impairment.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10050705
- **Project number:** 1R01NS114403-01A1
- **Recipient organization:** SCRIPPS FLORIDA
- **Principal Investigator:** Seth M Tomchik
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $434,750
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2020-08-01 → 2025-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10050705

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10050705, Dopaminergic circuit modulation of learning and arousal-mediated memory enhancement (1R01NS114403-01A1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10050705. Licensed CC0.

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