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Abstract
An understanding of memory has long been a goal of neuroscience. One question that has attracted particular attention is whether there is a specific molecule that maintains memories. After almost two decades of careful work, neuroscientist Todd Sacktor and colleagues thought they had the answer. In 2006, the authors reported1 that an atypical isoform of the enzyme protein kinase C, called PKM-ζ, was involved in maintaining memories in mice, and that an inhibitor of PKM-ζ could erase memories. The results were subsequently questioned2,3, and controversy ensued. Writing in eLife, the same group that performed the 2006 study opens a new chapter in this debate4, arguing that PKM-ζ should be restored to its pre-eminent status as the memory molecule.