Plasticity and Functional Recovery of the Brain After Trauma

Question 1

Plasticity

Answer 1

The brain’s tendency to change and adapt as a result of experience and new learning. This generally involves the growth of new connections.

Question 2

Functional recovery

Answer 2

A form of plasticity, following damage through trauma, where the brain is able to redistribute or transfer functions usually performed by a damaged area(s) to other, undamaged area(s).

Question 3

Synaptic pruning

Answer 3

A process where rarely used connections are deleted and frequently used connections are strengthened.

Question 4

Recruitment of homologous areas

Answer 4

Where areas on the opposite side of the brain can perform specific tasks.

Question 5

Axonal sprouting

Answer 5

The growth of new nerve endings which connect with undamaged nerve cells to form new neuronal pathways.

Question 6

Blood vessel reformation

Answer 6

Blood vessels are changed and strengthened so that the brain can function in the damaged areas.