Synaptic plasticity

Synaptic plasticity

Changes at the synapse that result in the strengthening or weakening of synaptic connections over time in response to activity or experience.

Long-term potentiation (LTP)

The long-lasting, experience-dependent strengthening of synaptic connections due to repeated, high-intensity stimulation at the synapse.

Long-term depression (LTD)

The long-lasting, experience-dependent weakening of synaptic connections caused by repeated, low-intensity stimulation at the synapse.

What is the main function of synaptic plasticity?

To enable the strengthening or weakening of synaptic connections based on activity or experience.

What are the two levels of changes in synaptic plasticity?

Synaptic level changes and structural level changes.

What occurs during long-term potentiation?

Increased receptor sites on the postsynaptic neuron, more neurotransmitter released, bushier dendrites, and more synaptic connections.

What is the significance of the phrase 'Neurons that fire together wire together'?

It suggests that simultaneous activation of neurons strengthens their connections.

What is the outcome of long-term depression?

A decrease in receptor sites on the postsynaptic neuron and fewer synaptic connections.

How do LTP and LTD interact during learning?

LTP strengthens connections for new skills, while LTD weakens connections for old skills or errors.

What is sprouting in terms of structural changes?

The development of new extensions from dendrites and axon terminals to form new synapses.

What does pruning refer to in synaptic plasticity?

The elimination of weak or unused synapses to enhance efficiency in the brain.

Learning

A relatively permanent change in behavior due to experience.

Memory

An active information processing system that encodes, stores, and retrieves information.

What is the relationship between learning and memory?

Learning is necessary for memory; if information is not learned, it cannot be remembered.