Development has proven to be a powerful analytic tool for dissociating different forms of learning and memory in Aplysia. In this project a developmental strategy will be used to explore two key questions: (1) What is the relationship between nonassociative and associative learning? Having already determined when nonassociative learning (sensitization) emerges, it will first be determined when associative learning (classical conditioning) emerges. Following this behavioral analysis, both forms of learning will be compared at several mechanistic levels: (i) biophysical; (ii) biochemical; and (iii) synaptic. (2) What is the relationship between short-term memory and long-term memory? Having already determined when short-term memory (minutes-hours) for sensitization emerges, it will first be determined when long- term memory (days-weeks) emerges. Following this behavioral analysis, the development of short-term and long-term memory will be investigated at biophysical, biochemical, and synaptic levels of analysis. By using development as a dissecting tool to uniquely dissociate and analyze complex behavioral and neuronal processes in a preparation such as Aplysia, which is highly suited for a mechanistic analysis, this research project can significantly advance scientific knowledge in an area of fundamental importance: the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying learning and memory.***//
