Human Anatomy - Physiology, Neuroplasticity, Pruning

function of prefrontal cortex

1. executive functioning skills

2. reflective (considers feelings & responses)

3. long term memory

4. emotional management

info is transferred through…

PNS → amygdala → PFC

forms long term memory & learning occurs

low stress & amygdala

low metabolic activity → info goes to PFC

can start learning, decision making

high stress & amygdala

hyper metabolic → info goes to reactive part

cannot learn

function of PET scans

used to observe brain activities

definition of mentalizing

making connections between “old” info and new circumstances

definition of neural networks

arrangement of neurons in a circuit

neural networks are strengthened…

through use, otherwise will be pruned

maturation of network results in…

neuroplasticity

electricity from impulse leads to…

• more dendrites → more networks

• more myelin formation → more maturation

• more intentional synapse connections → better communication

definition of neuroplasticity

brain’s ability to form new neural networks throughout life

function of neuroplasticity

allows one to learn and adjust to new situations, continual process of pruning and myelination

definition of pruning

“weeding out” unused connections and strengthening connections based on experiences

pruning provides…

room for most important connections to grow → makes brain more efficient

if pruning does not occur…

leads to overgrowth of connections → inefficient communication

pruning in fetal development

neurons pruned away by apoptosis → prevents “overcrowded” brain

childhood pruning

age 3: pruning based on early childhood experiences begins

immature brains are…

• more densely packed cells

• more synapses per cell than mature brain

• possible developmental problems occur if pruning does not occur