Neural basis of learning and memory

Question 1

Neural basis of memory

Define neural plasticity (synaptic plasticity)

Answer 1

Refers to the way in which the brain’s structure or function changes due to experience throughout the lifespan

Question 2

Neural basis of memory

What two ways can synaptic plasticity develop

Answer 2

• Synaptic connections grow in numbers when we learn something, it strengthens the synapse.
• If the synaptic connection are not being used, they are eliminated, which weakens the synapse (prune)

Question 3

Neural basis of memory

What is Hebb’s rule

Answer 3

Neurons that fire together, wire together.

Question 4

Neural basis of memory
Hebb’s rule

Define Long term potentiation (LTP)

Answer 4

Refers to the long lasting strengthening of the synaptic connections of neurons, resulting in enhanced functioning of neurons

Question 5

Neural basis of memory
Hebb’s rule

Define Long term depression (LTD)

Answer 5

Refers to the long-lasting weakening in synaptic connections of neurons, were pro neuron become less responsive to the neurotransmitter released by pre neuron

Question 6

Neural basis of memory
Long term potentiation (LTP)

What is the practical benefit of LTP

Answer 6

Makes us less likely to forget information and allows us to more quickly retrieve information

Question 7

Neural basis of memory
Long term depression (LTD)

What is the practical benefit of LTD

Answer 7

‘de-clutter’ our brain, thus allows us to have more neural connections to represent newly learnt knowledge or skills and makes learning + memory processes more efficient

Question 8

Neurotransmitter and neurohormones

Define neurohormones

Answer 8

Are chemical messengers produced by neurons which are released from axon terminals into capillaries and then into the bloodstream

Question 9

Neurotransmitter and neurohormones

Role of glutamate in synaptic plasticity when released

Answer 9

Promotes the strengthening of synaptic connections between neurons and this increases the chance that the pre-synaptic neurons will connect again with the post-synaptic neuron in the future (LTP)

Question 10

Neurotransmitter and neurohormones

Role of glutamate in synaptic plasticity when NOT released

Answer 10

Decreases the chance of the pre-synaptic neurons to fire (LTD)

Question 11

Neurotransmitter and neurohormones

The dendrites of that post-synaptic neuron need to have glutamate receptors (AMPA aqnd NMDA) which…

Answer 11

will allow any messages carried within the glutamate neurotransmitters to be ‘accepted’ by the receiving neuron. If the dendrites lack these receptors, then the message will not be delivered successfully and glutamate will not have an effect on the post-synaptic neuron.

Question 12

Neurotransmitter and neurohormones
Role of adrenaline in the consoildation of emotionally arousing experiences

Adrenaline

Answer 12

Is a neurohormone we often associate with stressors and threats but it also has a role in learning and memory. It boost the consolidation of memories that are emotionally arousing (more likely to remember)

Question 13

Neurotransmitter and neurohormones
Role of adrenaline in the consoildation of emotionally arousing experiences

Consolidation

Answer 13

Refers to the physiological process of a newly-formed memory becoming solid, stable, and fixed into long-term memory after learning (time is required after learning to ensure new info sets) - at least 30 min

Question 14

Neurotransmitter and neurohormones
Role of adrenaline in the consoildation of emotionally arousing experiences

Answer 14

• adrenaline is naturally released when we are in states of emotional arousal.
• The amygdala sends a signal to the hippocampus that this experience is important and should be consoliated into long-term memory