learning and memory

Question 1

Definition of neuronal plasticity

Answer 1

ability of the nervous system to change and adapt

Question 2

Define intrinsic excitability

Answer 2

number of action potential a neuron exhibits in response to an influx of positive current

Question 3

define synaptic strength

Answer 3

amount of positive or negative current that enters the postsynaptic neuron when a presynaptic cell has an action potential

Question 4

define synaptic placticity

Answer 4

changes in the strength of the synaptic connection between two neurons

Question 5

what is the difference between long-term potentiation and long-term depression in synaptic plasticity

Answer 5

LTP: strengthens synapses increasing signal transmission
LTD: weakens synapses, reducing responsiveness

Question 6

What is the NMDA receptor gated by?

Answer 6

membrane voltage and glutamate

Question 7

Distinguish perceptual learning, motor learning, relational learning and stimulus-response learning

Answer 7

perceptual: recognize stimuli as distinct entities
motor: choreographed movements
relational: relationships among individual
stimulus-response: perform particular beh when particular stimulus is presented

Question 8

describe the two types of long-term memory

Answer 8

unconscious
- automatic and involuntary
consciously accessible
- can think and talk about

Question 9

associate each type of learning with either implicit or explicit memory

Answer 9

perceptual → implicit
motor → implicit
relational → explicit
stimulus-response → implicit and explicit

Question 10

What is the best way to keep a memory and make it become a LTM?

Answer 10

constant stimulation of the neurons associated with that memory

Question 11

Which of the molecules is NOT important for LTP and memory?
a. NMDA receptor
b. CAMKII
c. PKMzeta
d. GLAMPA
e. nitric oxide

Answer 11

d. GLAMPA

Question 12

Which of these is FALSE about instrumental learning?
a. it requires some exploratory behaviour
b. it involves reinforcement and/or punishment
c. it involves the basal ganglia
d. it requires some innate behaviour
e. it involves dopamine signaling

Answer 12

d.

Question 13

damage to regions of the brain involved in visual perception impairs one’s ability to…

Answer 13

recognize visual stimuli and disrupts their memory of visual properties of familiar stimuli

Question 14

Explain how one’s level of dopamine can influence one’s desire for learning

Answer 14

low levels: not seeking out rewards, not engaged with environment
high levels: inverse

Question 15

anterogade amnesia is…

Answer 15

the inability to recall “new” info