Multitarget network strategies to influence memory and forgetting: the Ras/MAPK pathway as a novel option.

The Ras/mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway has key importance in development, cell differentiation and senescence, tumorigenesis, learning and memory. The clinical manifestations associated with this highly conserved pathway are called RASopathies. Phenotypic features are diverse and overlapping, but cognitive impairment is a common symptom. Here, we propose an approach based on molecular networks that link learning, memory and forgetting to the RASopathies and various neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and autism spectrum disorders. We demonstrate the cross-talks of the molecular pathways in RASopathies and memory and the role of compartmentalization in these processes. The approved drugs are also overviewed, and C. elegans is proposed as a viable model system for experimental exploration and compound target prediction.n.