Neural basis of learning (U3 AOS 2) Flashcards
What is neural plasticity and what are the two types of it?
The ability to modify neural circuits to meet the demands of new experiences
There is adaptive plasticity and development plasticity.
How can neural plasticity occur?
> By modifying strength of efficacy of synaptic
transmissions of existing synaptic connections
> By producing growth of new synaptic connections or
pruning away existing ones
What is LTP?
A form of neural plasticity that leads to an increase in efficacy (strengthening) of synaptic transmission.
- Makes neurons more likely to fire in the future with less stimulation
How is LTP associated with memory?
Each time a memory is activated the memory circuit strengthens.
What is LTD?
It is the reduced efficacy (weakening) of synaptic transmission.
- Reduces transmission of information between neurons
- Assists in pruning unused synapses
What is the purpose of LTD with an example.
Assists in pruning unused synapses, leaving only the important connections that have been strengthened through repeated use by LTP.
E.g, if making a mistake, you do not want to remember it so those synapses will get pruned.
Where is a neurotransmitter and neurohormone released into?
Neurotransmitter: released by a neuron into the synapse of the post-synaptic neuron
Neurohormone: released by a neuron into the bloodstream to act on distant sites
What is the role of glutamate in synaptic plasticity?
It promotes the growth and strengthening of synaptic connections between neurons within a neural pathway that subsequently represents the memory of what has been learned
Does glutamate have a vital role in LTP and LTD? If so, how?
Yes it does.
The more often that glutamate can excite an adjacent neuron, the more it contributes to LTP (vice versa for LTD)
Is excess glutamate bad? If so, what can result of it?
Yes.
It is associated with anxiety disorders, ADHD and seizures
What is consolidation on memory and where is it heavily involved in the brain?
A biological process in which recently learned experiences are transformed into long-term memory.
Hippocampus is heavily involved in this process.
What is the hippocampus involved in?
Heavily involved in memory formation.
How does adrenaline play a role in consolidation of memories? (5 marks)
It can enhance the consolidation of long-term memories of emotionally arousing experiences.
- Individual first perceives an emotionally arousing experience in which it activates the hypothalamus
- This activates the sympathetic nervous system to adrenal glands to release the hormone adrenaline
- This activates adrenoreceptors in the brain (on vague nerves)
- Brain area then releases noradrenaline which in turn activates the amygdala to signal the hippocampus that the details of the relevant experience should be strengthened
What is the role of the amygdala?
Plays a crucial role in processing emotions.
What does noradrenaline do during consolidation?
The presence of noradrenaline during consolidation of memory activates the the amygdala in which it sends signals to the hippocampus that the details of the relevant experience should be strengthened.
