Learning and Memory Flashcards

Flashcards based on the lecture notes about Learning and Memory, covering neuroplasticity, LTP, types of memory, and memory manipulation.

Learning

A relatively permanent change in behavior resulting from experience.

Neuroplasticity

The capacity of the brain to change with experience.

Hebb’s Postulate

When an axon of cell A is near enough to excite a cell B and repeatedly takes part in firing it, some growth process takes place increasing A's efficiency.

Long-term potentiation (LTP)

Persistent increase in synaptic strength following high-frequency stimulation of synaptic connections.

Field excitatory post-synaptic potentials (EPSPs)

Collective response of a large population of neurons.

Long-term depression (LTD)

Persistent reduction in synaptic strength, induced by prolonged weak stimulation.

Memory

Process whereby information is stored, consolidated, + retrieved.

Memory trace/Engram

A subset of cells in the brain that are active during an original experience and are believed to store a given memory.

Anterograde Amnesia

Inability to form new memories.

Retrograde Amnesia

Inability to access old memories.

Declarative Memory

Things you know that you can tell others (hippocampus dependent).

Nondeclarative Memory

Things you know that you can show by doing (hippocampus independent).

Episodic Memory

A person’s unique memory of an event from their perspective

Semantic Memory

General knowledge that anyone could know (almost like trivia).

Multiple Trace Theory

Each time a rich, detailed (i.e. episodic) memory is recalled, the hippocampus lays down a new trace of it.

Neuroprosthesis

Use of direct electrical stimulation (via implanted devices) to affect behavior and perhaps enhance memory.

Propanolol

β-adrenergic receptor blocker that, when applied during reactivation, reduces PTSD symptoms.