Participation of RNA synthesis in the process of the development and maintenance of conditioned reflexes (an investigation using antitheines).

It has been established that an increase in RNA synthesis in the neurons of the cerebral cortex of rats at the stage of consolidation is manifested in well-trained animals more strongly than in poorly trained animals. The selective influence of propylnorantitheine and demethylated derivatives of ethylnorantitheine on the maintenance of conditioned reflexes has been demonstrated. The effects of these substances on consolidation and long-term memory correlate with the change in the RNA-synthesizing activity of neurons during the effect both in systemic experiments and with the direct interaction with the chromatin of the neurons. The participation of the RNA synthesis of cerebral cortical neurons in the mechanisms of long-term memory is discussed.