Learning and Memory

Question 1

What are the 2 broad types of memory?

Answer 1

Declarative (explicit or conscious)

Non-declarative (implicit or non-conscious)

Question 2

Give an example of declarative memory. Where is this kind of memory stored?

Answer 2

Facts and events

In the hippocampus and surrounding structures in the medial temporal lobe region of the diencephalon

Question 3

List the 4 types of non-declarative memory and the areas for each

Answer 3

Skills and habits: striatum, motor cortex and cerebellum
Priming: neocortex
Basic associative learning: emotional responses in amygdala, skeletal musculature in cerebellum
Non-associative learning: reflex pathways

Question 4

What effect does experience have on hippocampal grey matter?

Answer 4

Increases in size

Question 5

What is the influence of neuronal activity on memory storage?

Answer 5

Increased stimulation leads to slower, long term changes; may be the basis for long term memory

Question 6

What is the difference between the NR2A and NR2B subunits expressed in NMDA channels in mice?

Answer 6

NR2B is the developmental form and confers enhanced synaptic plasticity

Question 7

List 3 cellular mechanisms for the storage of short term memory

Answer 7

Insertion of AMPA receptors
Phosphorylation
Enhanced presynaptic release via retrograde signalling

Question 8

List 2 cellular mechanisms for the storage of long term memory

Answer 8

Protein synthesis

Structural changes

Question 9

What effect does physical activity have on the brain?

Answer 9

Release of GFs (e.g. BDNF) for generation of new neurons
Improvements in mood and memory
Increased blood flow to the brain