Provided herein are methods for improving memory or cognitive function in a subject by administering a composition to the brain of the subject, where the composition comprises: i) a compound that increases expression of MALAT-1 long non-coding RNA, ii) a MALAT-1 long-coding RNA nucleic acid sequence, or iii) at least one MALAT-1 derived piRNA nucleic acid sequence. Also provided herein are methods of screening candidate compounds for their ability to modulate the expression of MALAT-1 long non-coding RNA in brain cells. In certain embodiments, such identified modulators that increase expression are further administered to the brain of a lab animal to determine the impact of such modulators on learning and memory.
