Memory editing during sleep: mechanisms, clinical applications, and technological innovations

Abstract

Sleep is not merely a passive state: it actively consolidates memories via reactivation of recent experiences. Beyond preserving precious memories, sleep provides a critical, yet underappreciated window for editing aversive memories. We propose an integrative framework for sleep-based memory editing, outlining three key strategies: extinction via reactivation of original memories, interference reactivation via strengthening of wakeful interfering memories, and interference induction via the introduction of new stimuli during sleep reactivation. These strategies leverage sleep's neural processing to weaken aversive memories. Moreover, emerging evidence suggests that sleep-based memory editing can aid the treatment of psychiatric disorders. Technological innovations, including closed-loop neuromodulation, wearable devices, and neural decoding, allow more accurate and accessible interventions. These developments position sleep for adaptive memory editing, ultimately safeguarding mental health.