U1AOS4 Neuroplasticity Flashcards
Neuroplasticity
The ability of the brain and other parts of the nervous system to change in response to experience
Long-term potentiation
Strengthening of synaptic connections as a result of repeated activation
Long term depression
Weakening of synaptic connections as a result of repeated low-level activation of certain synaptic connections
Adaptive plasticity
Neuroplasticity in response to a need to adapt, such as a response to brain trauma and injury
Developmental plasticity
In response to ageing and the learning associated with maturation
Developmental plasticity brain changes
- Synaptogenesis
- Synaptic pruning
- Myelinatipn
Synaptogenesis
Formation of synapses between neuron’s as axon terminals and dendrites grow and get bushier
Synaptic pruning
Where underused synapses are eliminated through pruning, in order to make room for new synapses or the strengthening of frequently used synapses
Myelination
Formation and development of myelin around the axon of a neuron to protect the neuron from interference from other neurons
Adaptive plasticity changes
- sprouting
- rerouting
Sprouting
The ability of a neuron to develop new branches on the dendrites or axons enabling new neural connections to be formed
Rerouting
A neurons ability to break free from a damaged neuron and form a new connection with another undamaged neuron
Critical periods
If certain functions are not acquired during these periods they may never develop or may not be fully functional
Sensitive periods
Optimal developmental period for a specific function or skill to be learnt in the fastest and easiest way
ABI
An acquired brain injury refers to all types of brain injuries that occur after birth
Traumatic brain injuries
Damage to the brain caused by an external force, eg. falls. Assaults and sports injuries
Non-traumatic brain injuries
Damage to the brain caused by internal factors, such a a lack of oxygen or a tumour
Impact of ABI on biological functioning
- Seizures- can even occur years later
- Movement impairment- paralysis
- Small impairment- AKA olfaction
Impact of ABI on psychological functioning
- Memory loss
- Personality changes
- Increased susceptibility to mental health disorders
Impact of ABI on social functioning
- Job productivity
- Social support- changes in relations
- Antisocial behaviour
What does CTE stand for
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy
CTE
CTE occurs often in older athletes who have been retired for some time and have suffered repeated concussions
Symptoms of CTE
- memory loss
- behavioural changes
- anxiety
- paranoia
- mood changes
Diagnosing CTE
- can only be confirmed through an autopsy
- build up of p-tau protein which creates neurofibrillary tangles in the neuron
Preventing CTE
Wearing helmets and proper rest and recovery after concussion
