6A- Neuroplasticity Flashcards
What is neuroplasticity?
Ability of neural networks to change as a result of experience.
-Most active in childhood
What is synaptogenesis?
Process of forming new synapses.
long term potentiation
relative permanent strengthening of synaptic connections
- result or repeated activation of neural pathway
long term depression
the relative permanent weakening of synapticic connections
- result of low level activation
synaptic pruning
elimination of unused synapses
Experience independent plasticity
-plasticity involve brain changes regardless of experience
Experience expectant plasticity
brain developed trigger by specific environmental cues (certain times)
Experience dependent
Unique and personal brain changes as a result of different situations/experiences.
principles of experience-dependent plasticity
10 principles
Structural and functional changes to neuros/synapses with neuroplasticity?
Increase in:
-dendritic branches
-axon branches
-receptor sites
-number of neurotransmitters released into synapses
what are the pocesses in the brain following a bain injury
-Rerouting
Healthy nearby neurons create alternative neural pathways.
-Sprouting
Existing neurons form new axon terminal and dendrites forming new connections.
Phases of neuroplasticity following trauma
1.Day 1-2 neuron death and inhibitory pathways decrease uncover secondary neural networks.
2. Day 2 changes from inhibitory to excitatory, new synapses created, damage neuron cell replaced.
3. Over weeks- synaptogenesis continues, sprouting increases and remodeling of the brain are at the highest
Ways to Maintain and maximise brain function?
Mental stimulation- activities that activate/enriches the mind.
-formation of new dendritic branches/synapses
-increased chemical function maintaining growth/plasticity of neurons
-increased formation in survival of new neuron in certain brain regions
-reduced age-related brain atrophy in memory structure
Diet to maintain brain function
20% energy intake goes to brain function
polyphenols- colourful foods -veggies /fruits
antitoxin/anti-inflammatory
-enhance synaptic transmission and cognitive function
-prevent age-related decline (CNS)
-Prevent neurodegenerative disease
Benefits of intermittent fasting
-reduced age-related degeneration
-increase synapse formation and neurotransmitter release
Benefits or physical activity
Promotes neuroplasticity, altering the synaptic structure and function in the brain
Increasing density of neuron dendrites
Reduced aged-related decline in the cortical tissue of 3 lobes.
Aerobic/cardiorespiratory- mod intensity
