Neuroplasticity Flashcards
Definition
The brain’s ability to reorganize by forming, eliminating or modifying neural connections in response to experiences, learning and injury. Allows dynamic development, adaptation and recovery, creating an intricate network of neurons through a multi-level process
Who discovered it?
Donald Hebb, Canadian.
Phrase “Neurons that fire together wire together” –> “Use it or lose it”
Is it an easy process?
No, its very energy-intensive and costly process
Levels at which neuroplasticity happens
Cellular level
Synaptic level
System level
Cellular level
Neurogenesis
Synaptic level
- # of secreted NTS & neuroreceptors
- Synapse shape and surface area
- Number of synapses
- Connections per synapse
System level
Synaptogenes, synapse pruning and myelination
Ways to ensure meaningful learning
Summation at the axon helix
[multiple presynaptic inputs get same info from multiple neurons]
when this process is repeated multiple times…
LTP = Long term potentiation
LTP Definition
The persistent strengthening of synapse based on a pattern of activity
Brain Maturation Steps
- Neurogenesis / Synaptogenesis
[creation of neurons, dendrites and synapses] - State of hyperconnectivity
[everything connects. peak synaptic density] - Synaptic Pruning
[elimination of unnecessary synapses and strengthening of important ones]
Hebbian learning definition
Explains how neurons adapt and form stronger connections through repeated use
Increased Myelination
- happens as the brain matures
=increase in fatty sheath wrapping the axon to enhance electrical transmission efficiency - supresses plasticity but stabilizes efficiency
Is brain development homo or heterogenous?
Heterogenous, NOT HOMOGENOUS UNIT
Brain development stages
stages of plasticity
2 main states
- 1st wave of plasticity (0-4yrs)
- 2nd wave of plasticity (8-20 yrs)
1st wave of plasticity
Hard-wiring
- Sensory and language development
- Beginning of emotional development
**RLLY important to have correct environment
2nd wave of plasticity
- Higher level cognitive functions
- Development of prefrontal cortex
Factors affecting Neuroplasticity [9]
- Age
- Sleep
- Exercise
- Diet
- Environmental stimuli
- Stress
- Genetics
- Hormones
- Injury and disease
Brain Injury Recovery - Steps [3]
- Damage to tissue and cells
- Brain initials cell genesis (creation of new cells)
- Adaptive plasticity kicks in (rewires, relearns networks, creates synapses)
