Chapter 2D Flashcards
synaptic plasticity
synaptic plasticity
Synaptic plasticity refers to the ability of the brain’s neural structure or function to be changed by
experience throughout one’s lifetime.
Plasticity occurs at the synapse, and the formation of new
synaptic connections as a result of learning is referred to as synaptogenesis. Plasticity may involve the
strengthening of a synapse when synaptic connections are repeatedly activated, or the weakening and
elimination of synaptic connections when a synaptic connection is not being used
sprouting
Sprouting synapses refers to the process where neurons form new connections by growing new branches (dendrites or axons). This helps the brain adapt, repair, and strengthen communication between neurons, especially after learning or injury.
rerouting
Rerouting synapses refers to the process in the brain where connections between neurons (synapses) are reorganized or redirected. This can happen in response to learning, injury, or changes in brain activity, allowing the brain to adapt and form new pathways for communication between neurons. It’s a key part of brain plasticity, helping with recovery and learning new skills.
pruning
Pruning synapses is the process where the brain removes weak or unused neuron connections. This helps improve efficiency by strengthening important pathways and eliminating unnecessary ones, especially during development and learning.
synpatic plasticity in learning and memory
Learning involves acquiring knowledge and
memory is the storage of that knowledge.
Neither could occur without synaptic
plasticity – our brain physically changes
when we form a memory.
The new pathways are called memory traces,
with each different trace representing a
different memory
long term potention
+ Long-term potentiation is the long-lasting and experience-dependent strengthening of
synaptic connections that are regularly coactivated. It is an experience-dependent
form of synaptic plasticity because neural synapses are strengthened in response to
frequent and repeated use during learning and memory.
+ LTP occurs due to:
An increase in receptor sites on the postsynaptic neuron
Dendrites becoming bushier (sprouting), resulting in more synaptic
connections
long term depression
+ Long-term depression is the long-lasting and experience-dependent weakening of
synaptic connections between neurons that are not regularly coactivated. It is an
experience-dependent form of synaptic plasticity because neural synapses are
weakened in response to infrequent use.
+ LTD occurs when..
The number of receptor sites on the post-synaptic neuron decreases
Pruning of dendrites on the post-synaptic neuron results in fewer synaptic
connections