Neuroplasticity

What is neuroplasticity?

the brain’s ability to change its structure and function in response to environmental demands and internal changes.

What are some processes included in neuroplasticity?

Neurogenesis (creation of new neurons), dendritic branching, strengthening of neural pathways, and neural pruning.

What is dendritic branching?

It is the process of forming new connections between neurons.

What is neural pruning?

The elimination of unused neural connections to improve the efficiency of brain function.

How can scientists observe neuroplasticity?

Using MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), which provides non-invasive structural images of the brain.

What provides evidence of neuroplasticity in the brain?

Changes in brain structure (e.g., increased volume) after practicing a specific task.

What was the aim of Maguire’s study?

To investigate changes in brain structure after acquiring navigational knowledge.

Who were the participants in the study?

74 aspiring London taxi drivers and 31 control participants.

What initial data did Maguire collect?

MRI scans and cognitive test results to measure the size of the hippocampus and assess mental performance.

What happened after 3–4 years?

Some participants passed the Knowledge test; others failed. All repeated the MRI scans and cognitive tests.

What did Maguire find in the group that passed the test?

An increase in the volume of the posterior hippocampus.

Did the control group or those who failed show the same brain changes?

No, their posterior hippocampus volume remained the same.

How did those who passed perform on memory tasks?

They performed significantly better on spatial and navigational memory tests.

How does Maguire’s study support the theory of neuroplasticity?

It shows that practicing spatial tasks (navigation) led to structural changes in the brain, specifically the posterior hippocampus.

What does the increase in hippocampus volume suggest?

That repeated use of spatial memory strengthens and creates new neural pathways, a core feature of neuroplasticity.

What happened to participants who didn’t train or pass the test?

They did not show any change in the posterior hippocampus, supporting the idea that brain changes depend on practice.