neural basis of learning and memory Flashcards
1
Q
neural plasticity
A
- enables learning
- neural connections are formed, removed, remade continuously
- capacity of brain and neurons to change and adapt
2
Q
developmental plasticity
A
- changes to brain occur more frequently in foetal stage
3
Q
adaptive plasticity
A
- is not diminished with age
- adults continue to develop synapses as a result of stimulating experiences and changes in environment
4
Q
long term potentiation
A
- increased tendency of a group of neurons to fire after being electrically stimulated in a particular electrical frequency (long lasting strengthening of synaptic connections, more effective synaptic transmission between neurons)
- because synapses between them has been strengthened due to previous firing to that frequency
- each time the same electrical frequency is administered, the same neurons ‘fire’ and synapses between them become stronger
5
Q
effects of LTP
A
- increased release of the relevant neurotransmitter and less stimulation needed to release them
- increased receptor sensitivity (more receptor sites)
- more dendrites
6
Q
long term depression
A
- frequency of electrical stimulation is reduced and can weaken an existing synapse
- role in clearing brain of old memories to make room for new learning
7
Q
what happens after LTP
A
- creation of new neural pathways
- strengthening of existing ones
8
Q
neural pathway
A
- bundle of myelin-covered neurons that provide a connection between one part of nervous system and the other
9
Q
what happens when learning - synaptogenesis
A
- existing synapses are moulded or new synapses are formed
10
Q
learning process
A
- terminal buttons of pre-synaptic neuron release glutamate into the synapse.
- neurons form new connections with each other
- the more a particular neural pathway is activated during learning, more likely it is to be strengthened and less likely the learning will be forgotten
11
Q
glutamate
A
- excitatory neuron for learning
- release of dopamine, prompts growth of dendritic spines on post synaptic neuron, increasing its sensitivity to firing; thus increasing efficiency of neural pathways for learnt behaviour
12
Q
2 types of glutamate receptors
A
- AMPA - activates post synaptic neuron
- NMDA - produces long lasting modifications on synapse
13
Q
adrenalin and learning
A
- low amounts secreted within 30 seconds of learning consolidates learning
- thus, memories formed with emotional arousal have strength and are vital for survival
- too much adrenalin can be counterproductive to consolidation
14
Q
pros and cons of adrenalin
A
- if hormone is present in bloodstream during a highly emotional event, it might enhance encoding
- helpful, learn to avoid dangerous situations
- problem, PTSD (victims suffer symptoms such as sleep deprivation and flashbacks of a traumatic event)
15
Q
flashbulb memories
A
- detailed, vivid long lasting memories of important events
- affected by adrenalin because they are long lasting but not necessarily accurate
