Delayed memory dysfunction by transient hypoxia, and its prevention with forskolin.

Rats exposed to 40 min hypoxia 3 h before a one-trial learning passive avoidance task showed impaired memory retention 24 h later. this model was used to assess the ability of forskolin to restore the delayed memory dysfunction. Significant amelioration of memory retention was observed when forskolin (500 micrograms/kg, i.p.) was injected just after hypoxia. Forskolin is suggested to enhance cerebral blood flow and to facilitate memory function through the action of increased cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP).