3C - Synaptic Plasticity

Question 1

what is synaptic plasticity ?

Answer 1

the ability of the synapses to change over time in response to experience or activity

Question 2

what is synaptogenesis

Answer 2

formation of synaptic connections

Question 3

what is long term potentiation

Answer 3

the relatively permanent strengthening of synaptic connections as a result of repeated activation of a neural pathway

Question 4

what is long term depression

Answer 4

the relatively permanent weakening of synaptic connections as a result of repeated low-level activation of a neural pathway

Question 5

what is sprouting

Answer 5

the ability of axons or dendrites to sprout new extensions which allows for more synaptic connections

Question 6

what is rerouting

Answer 6

the ability for new connections to be formed between neurons to establish alternative neural pathways

or

the ability of a neuron that’s connected to a damaged neuron to form a new connection with an undamaged neuron, thus circuit is reestablished

Question 7

what is pruning

Answer 7

involved the removal of excess (unused/inactive) synaptic connections to increase the efficiency of neuronal transmissions