CAMP response element-binding protein 2(CREB2) is also known as Activating Transcription Factor 2 (ATF2). CREB2 is a CREB repressor, which means it inhibits long-term memory formation.

CAMP response element-binding (CREB) proteins are transcription factors which bind to sequences of DNA called cAMP response elements. When signals arrive at receptors (e.g. glutamate receptors) on a cell’s surface, a series of protein-protein interactions lead to the production of cAMP, which in turn activates a protein kinase. This kinase migrates to the cell’s nucleus where it activates CREB. Once activated, CREB proteins coordinate a series of interactions. CREB proteins in neurons are involved in the formation of long-term memories and long-term potentiation. CREB2 is also known as Activating Transcription Factor 2 (ATF2). CREB2 is a CREB repressor, which means it inhibits long-term memory formation. Bartsch, Kandel and colleagues (1995) studied CREB2 in Aplysia (sea slug). When CREB2 repression was relieved, it became easier for the animals to lay down long-term memories.

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