A dopamine-dependent mechanism for reward-induced modification of fear memories

A positive mental state has been shown to modulate fear-related emotions associated with the recall of fear memories. These, and other observations suggest the presence of central brain mechanisms for affective states to interact. The neurotransmitter dopamine is important for both reward- and fear-related processes, but it is unclear whether dopamine contributes to such affective interactions. Here, we show that precisely timed reward-induced activation of dopamine neurons in mice potently modifies fear memories and enhances their extinction. This reward-based switch in fear states is associated with changes in dopamine release and dopamine-dependent regulation of fear encoding in the central amygdala (CeA). These data provide a central mechanism for reward-induced modification of fear states that have broad implications for treating generalized fear disorders. Summary Reward-induced dopamine release in the central amygdala switches fear states and modifies fear encoding.