Ch 25 (Learning and Memory Pt. 2) - Behavioral Neuroscience

memory acquisition

the initial learning and encoding of new information. During this stage, the brain processes environmental stimuli and records them in the nervous system via synaptic changes.

distributed memory storage

the principle that memories are not stored in a single brain location, but rather encoded, stored, and retrieved across widespread, neocortical networks of neurons

gill-withdrawal reflex

reflex in Aplysia californica (sea hare) is a simple, involuntary defensive mechanism where the animal retracts its gill and siphon when touched. Neuroscience uses this model to study memory because it has a small number of large, identifiable neurons that demonstrate learning behaviors like habituation and sensitization

long-term potentiation with memory acquisition

(LTP) is the cellular basis of memory acquisition, representing a long-lasting increase in signal transmission between neurons following repeated stimulation, primarily in the hippocampus. It strengthens synaptic connections—specifically via NMDA and AMPA receptors—when learning occurs, acting as the foundation for creating new memories

memory consilidation

the brain's biological process of stabilizing newly acquired, fragile information and transforming it into durable, long-term memories. It makes memories resistant to interference and integrates them into existing knowledge networks

protein synthesis

the creation of proteins within neurons, essential for synaptic plasticity, memory formation, and long-term structural changes.

synaptic tagging

explains how the brain creates long-term memories. When a synapse is activated, it sets a transient "tag". This tag acts as a beacon, capturing wandering plasticity-related proteins (PRPs) to permanently strengthen that specific connection and store the memory

CREB

(cAMP response element-binding protein) is a crucial transcription factor in neuroscience that regulates gene expression, playing a key role in neuronal plasticity, long-term memory formation, and neuron survival. Activated via phosphorylation (pCREB) by kinases like PKA, it initiates the expression of genes involved in synaptogenesis

structural plasticity

the brain's ability to physically remodel its neural connections—forming new synapses, pruning old ones, and altering dendritic spines—in response to learning, experience, or injury. Unlike functional plasticity (changing strength), structural plasticity changes the physical shape of neural circuits, allowing for lifelong adaptation and repair