Scientists Identify First Drug To Suppress Negative MemoriesNicholas West Now scientists are announcing that human genome studies have for the first time revealed the specific molecules and compounds that can be targeted and utilized to selectively reduce the impact of negative memories, while not impacting the neutral or positive. This is extremely dangerous territory, as the implications seem to be that a nine-tour veteran who has seen all manner of horror would magically remember those times as stable and even enjoyable. While this might be a noble solution for the individual affected, what does it mean for those in power who barely, if at all, care about the visible impact they are having upon other human beings? By erasing all memories of trauma, it very well could offer a perfect escape route for any sadist or sociopath to escape future testimony and enjoy their freedom among a fully lobotomized pool of victims. The full press release is posted below, Id love to hear your thoughts: Known Antihistamine Shows Effect In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study and based on the results of the genetic analysis, the scientists examined a compound that interacts with one of the previously identified gene products. Surprisingly, the said compound is a known antihistamine. A single dose of the drug led to significant reduction of memory recall of previously seen aversive pictures; however, it did not affect memory of neutral or positive pictures. These findings could have implications for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder. With this study, the scientists were for the first time able to demonstrate that human genome information can be used to identify substances that can modulate memory. The rapid development of innovative methods for genetic analysis has made this new and promising approach possible, says Papassotiropoulos. The scientists are now planning subsequent studies: In a further step, we will try to identify and develop memory enhancing drugs, explains de Quervain. The scientists hope to provide new input for the development of urgently needed improved drugs for the treatment of neuropsychiatric diseases. Company for Clinical Applications In order to bring their findings to clinical application, de Quervain and Papassotiropulos founded the company GeneGuide Ltd. this year. The company has specialized in the human genome-based research approach and the discovery of new drugs for neuropsychiatric diseases. This novel approach has been met with great interest by the pharmaceutical industry, since so far the development of improved neuropsychiatric drugs has been rather disappointing. Original Citation Human genomeguided identification of memory-modulating drugs. PNAS. http://www.pnas.org/cgi/doi/10.1073/onas.1314478110 