Lecture20: Synaptic Plasticity And Memory Flashcards
What is the time-based classification of memory?
Short and long term
Describe short term memory
Seconds to hours, labile, does not involve RNA or protein synthesis, has limited capacity
Define Long term memory
Years, months, not labile, involves RNA and protein synthesis, unlimited capacity
How does short term memory function? (Mechanism)
The nerve signals travel around and around a temporary memory trace in a circuit of Reverberating neurons
What are the physical changes that occur in long term memory?
The dendritic spines increase in size, the pre synaptic terminals increase and no’ of transmitter vesicles released increases
What is the classification of memory based on type of information stored?
Explicit(declarative) and Implicit (non-declarative)
What does the Explicit memory store?
Both semantic and episodic memories
What does the implicit memory store?
The ability to know-how, unconscious things like skills and habits
What are the 2 areas involved in storage of Explicit (declarative) memories?
Both the Hippocampus and medial temporal lobe
What area is the Fear/emotional memories stored in Impicit memory?
The amygdala
In implicit memory, where is the memory acquired through learning motor skills stored?
The striatum and cerebellum
What is the definition of working memory?
The limited memory that’s accessible temporarily
What does Working memory depend on?
Dopamine
Working memory is a function of which part of the brain?
The Pre frontal cortex
What is the ignoring of negative information of no consequence called?
Habituation
What is the acceptance of positive information called?
Sensitization
What is the process of habituation?
Decreased transmitter vesicles released and Ca++ Channels are inactivated
What is the process of sensitization?
The K+ channels close, thus a K++ efflux occurs, which leads to a Ca++ influx and more release of the neurotransmitter
What is Consolidation of memory?
When short term memory is converted to long term, primarily via rehearsals
Is the hippocampus important in consolidation?
Yes
