Neuroplasticity (1)

Question 1

Define plasticity

Answer 1

Dynamic potential of brain to reorganise self during learning or after damage

Question 2

What are the mechanisms of plasticity?

Answer 2

Altered cortical representation maps
Synaptic structure changes - dendrites and spines grow and contract
Axons sprout/eliminated/change trajectory
NT modulation
Synapses unmasked, potentiated, depressed
New neurons differentiated
Neurons eliminated

Question 3

What is the cause of LTD?

Answer 3

Timing of stimuli

Stimulus when neurons responding to previous stimulus refractory

Question 4

How does age affect cognitive performance?

Answer 4

Decreased neurogenesis, decreased synaptic plasticity, increased dendritici atrophy, increased apoptosis
Decreased hippocampal volume
Decreased cognitive performance