synaptic plasticity and memory formation Flashcards
synaptic plasticity
the ability of a synapse to change in response to experience (over time)
long-term potentiation (LTP)
strengthening of synaptic connections when a new memory is formed
LTP synaptic changes
- more neurotransmitters
- sprouting
Leads to stronger synaptic connections/memory formed. The two neurons will likely fire together
sprouting
the creation of new extensions on a neuron to allow it to make new connections
Hebb’s rule
when a neurotransmitter passes through a synapse, both neurons are more likely to fire together frequently and quickly
glutamate and LTP
glutamate promotes connection growth when memory is formed
found in abundance in hippocampus
long-term depression (LTD)
weakening of synaptic connections when old neural pathways are not used
pruning
the elimination of weak; ineffective or unused synapses
LTD synaptic changes
- less neurotransmitters
- pruning
Leads to more efficient brain function, making space for efficient pathways to form
rerouting
when new connections are made to form alternate neural pathways; occurs when brain trauma or neuronal damage occurs
similarities between LTP and LTD
- long term
- located at synapse
differences between LTP and LTD
- strengthening vs weakening of synaptic connections
- more vs less neurotransmitters released
- sprouting vs pruning
- strengthened memories (LTP) vs made space for new, quicker neural pathways (LTD)
