7.8 Memory Formation and Structures in the Brain

These flashcards cover key concepts from the topic of memory formation and its underlying structures in the brain, as discussed in the lecture.

Long Term Potentiation (LTP)

A process where repeated stimulation of neurons strengthens the connections between them, vital for memory formation.

Hippocampus

A critical brain structure involved in the initial formation of new memories and the process of consolidation.

Consolidation

The process of stabilizing a memory after its initial acquisition, moving it from short-term to long-term memory.

Cross cortical storage

The phenomenon where memories are distributed across different areas of the brain rather than being stored in a single location.

Retrograde amnesia

A type of amnesia where a person loses memories for events that occurred before an injury.

Anterograde amnesia

A type of amnesia where a person is unable to form new memories following an injury.

Cellular consolidation

The process that strengthens the synaptic changes underlying memory and makes them more permanent.

H. M. Case

A famous case study of Henry Molaison, who suffered from severe memory impairments after hippocampal surgery.

Medial temporal lobe

The region of the brain that includes the hippocampus and surrounding structures, crucial for memory.

Episodic memory

The memory of specific events or experiences in one's life.