Plasticity

Question 1

Neuroplasticity

(2)

Answer 1

• the ability of the brain to change its structure in response to experience or damage
• enables learning and memory

Question 2

Long-term Potentiation

(3)

Answer 2

• long lasting strengthening of synaptic connections between neurons through repeated stimulation
• crucial for learning and memory function
• causes increase in release of neurotransmitters and number of receptor sites

Question 3

Consolidation

(2)

Answer 3

• period of time in which LTP and memory storage occurs
• around 30 mins to 1 month

Question 4

Long-term Depression

(2)

Answer 4

• long-lasting depression of synaptic connections between neurons through repeated low-intensity stimulation
• causes decrease in release of neurotransmitters and number of receptor sites

Question 5

Glutamate

(2)

Answer 5

• most important neurotransmitter for learning and memory formation
• promotes growth and strengthening of synaptic connections between neurons within a neural pathway

Question 6

Sprouting

(2)

Answer 6

• synaptogenesis; formation of new neural connections to create new synaptic pathways
• growth of new axon terminals or dendrite branches to enable new synapses to made

Question 7

Rerouting

(2)

Answer 7

• new connections are made between neurons to create alternative neural pathways
• either existing synapses or new synapses are used

Question 8

Pruning

(2)

Answer 8

• excess or redundant synaptic connections are eliminated to enable more efficient neural processing of other pathways
• loss of dendritic branches or axon terminals