Neuroscience of Learning and Memory

A set of flashcards focused on key terms and concepts from the neuroscience of learning and memory.

Stem Cell Research

A field of research focusing on the potential of stem cells to regenerate damaged neurons, particularly in diseases like Parkinson's.

Dopamine-revergent Neurons

Neurons that release dopamine, whose loss is associated with Parkinson's Disease.

Tabula Rasa

A theory suggesting that individuals are born without built-in mental content and all knowledge comes from experience.

Chemo Affinity

The idea that chemical signals guide the connections between neurons during development.

Neurotrophic Factors

Molecules that support the survival, development, and function of neurons.

Synaptogenesis

The process of forming synapses between neurons, guided by neurotrophic factors.

Hebb’s Rule

The principle that synaptic connections strengthen when neurons are activated simultaneously.

Non-associative Learning

A type of learning that involves a response to a stimulus that occurs due to repeated exposure, like sensitization and habituation.

NMDA Receptor

A specific type of glutamate receptor involved in synaptic plasticity and memory function.

Hippocampus

A brain structure crucial for memory formation, involved in the consolidation of declarative memories.

Korsakoff's Syndrome

A chronic neurocognitive disorder caused by thiamine deficiency, often associated with alcoholism, leading to significant memory impairment.

Mirror Tracing Task

A task used to assess motor skill learning and the capacity to recall skills that does not rely on the hippocampus.

Semantic Memory

A type of long-term memory involving the storage of facts and knowledge.

Episodic Memory

A type of long-term memory involving personal experiences and specific events.

Place Cells

Neurons in the hippocampus that become active when an animal is in or moving toward a specific location.

Neuroplasticity

The ability of the brain to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life.

Memory Consolidation

The process by which short-term memories are converted into long-term memories.

Long-Term Potentiation (LTP)

A long-lasting strengthening of synapses based on recent patterns of activity.

Functional Connections

Connections formed between neurons that allow for communication and processing of information.