Neuroplasticity Flashcards
Synaptic plasticity
Ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken their connections
Neurogenesis
Development of new cells of the nervous system
Equipotentiality
Ability to transfer functional memory from a damaged to an undamaged part of the brain
vicariation
Ability of one part of the brain to substitute for the function of another (damaged)
diaschisis
Adaptive change of one part of the brain, in the presence of damage to a different, more distant part
Growth cones
Frontal part of an axon that can develop, or grow, in one direction, depending on needs and stimulation
Spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP)
The timing of action potentials generated in the communication between the pre- and post- synaptic neurons. (Explain why there are strengthened and weakened synapses)
Metaplasticity
Considering networks as a whole instead of the events happening in single neurons, metaplasticity tries to explain how different clusters affect each other during the learning process
Homeostatic plasticity
Mechanisms that maintain homeostasis of the synaptic network over time, after the necessary amount of development has been reached
Adult neurogenesis
Adult neurogenesis is the concept that the brain continues to make new neurons
Neuron clustering
Groups of neurons that migrated to a similar position during the embryonary development, that are able to facilitate the same faculty or are involved in similar activities
NTF
Molecules responsible for initiating neural structural development and maintenance processes under stimulation.
Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)
Most found on the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and basal nuclei.
The main function of the BDNF is to develop and maintain neuronal structure.
Glial Cell Derived Neurotrophic Factor (GDNF)
Mainly have the function to assure cell survival, growth, differentiation, and migration.
The main GDNF found in encephalon is the growth neurotrophic factor (GNF), responsible for preventing apoptosis of motor and dopaminergic neurons.
Self-strategy (top-down processes)
Allowing the NS to deal with inputs (receive, combine, interpret) to create its own output (or patient strategy)
Greater learning effect with significantly better motor outcomes if individuals develop motor strategies themselves compared with strategies imposed by somebody else.
