Notch is required for memory formation in both mice and flies. Mice heterozygous for Notch1 and the downstream cofactor RBP-J show deficits in spatial learning and memory10. Temperature-sensitive Notch mutant flies show deficits in 24 hr memory for an odor associated with shock11,12 and RNAi-mediated Notch silencing in the MB reduces this memory12. We speculate that sca may regulate Notch signaling to mediate memories of ethanol reward. This may occur in the mushroom body αβ neurons, where 5-120-GAL4 is expressed, and which are required for long-term memory41.
