5.9 Perceptual Reorganization

Question 1

Cortical plasticity

Answer 1

a theoretical framework for how functional reorganization, or cortical plasticity, might occur in the brain through remodeling of neuronal connections.

Question 2

mechanisms of cortical reorganization

Answer 2

Reorganization in the motor cortex has been found to depend on the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the principal inhibitory neurotransmitter. When GABA levels are high, activity in individual cortical neurons is relatively stable. If GABA levels are lower, the neurons respond to a wider range of stimuli. For example, a neuron that responds to the touch of one finger will respond to the touch of other fingers if GABA is blocked.