Neural basis of learning and memory Flashcards
Define neural plasticity.
The ability of the brain to change its neural structure and functioning due to experience through synapse modification.
Define the two types of neural plasticity.
Developmental. Takes place in infants/ adolescents due to growth and development. Is the ability of synapses to be modified.
Adaptive. Allows for someone to change/ recover after a serious injury. The ability of the brain to develop as a result of new experience by re routeing neural connections and sprouting new ones.
Define learning.
A relatively permanent change in behaviour due to experience.
Define memory.
An active information system that receives organises, stores and recovers information when we require it.
Define synaptogenesis.
The process by which synapses are formed between neurons. Happens most rapidly from 0-2 years old.
Define long term potentiation.
LTP. The increase in synaptic strength through high frequency stimulation of the synaptic pathway from an enriched environment.
Define long term depression.
LTD. The decrease in synaptic transmission resulting from lack of simulation in deprived environments.
Define synaptic pruning.
If neurons are not stimulated they are culled to increase efficiency and speed of neural transmission.
Outline characteristics of LTP.
Results from enriched environments (repeated stimulation).
Makes neural pathway stronger and more efficient.
The post synaptic neuron is more likely to fire.
Decreases amount of memory less.
Allows us to strengthen recall/ storing of important information.
Outline characteristics of LTD.
Results form deprived environments (lack of stimulation).
Weakens neural pathways, making them less efficient.
Makes the post synaptic neuron less likely to fire.
Increases memory less.
Allows us to adjust our thinking or block unwanted feelings and behaviours via synaptic pruning.
Define neurohormones and give two examples.
Neurohormones are chemical messengers released directly into the bloodstream and carried to specific target cells. Eg dopamine and adrenalin.
Distinguish between neurotransmitters and neurohormones.
Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers released at the synapse to interact with the post synaptic neuron, whilst neurohormones are chemical messengers released directly into the bloodstream that interact with specific target cells.
Neurotransmitters can function only as a neurotransmitter, however neurohormones can act as either a hormone or a neurotransmitter.
While neurotransmitters only travel short distances and do so quickly, neurohormones can travel long distances in the bloodstream and their effects are slower comparatively.
Explain glutamate.
Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter, has a role in learning and memory.
What is the role of glutamate in synaptic plasticity?
As the main excitatory neurotransmitter, glutamate increases the growth and strength of synaptic connections within a neural pathway (LTP). Which increases the efficiency of learned behaviours.
