Neural Basis of Learning and Memory Flashcards
What is learning?
is a relatively permanent change in behaviour as a result of experience
What is memory?
is the processing, storage and retrieval of info gained through through learning
What is neural plasticity?
is the ability of the brain’s neural structure to be changed due to experience
What is developmental plasticity?
development of the brain that occurs before birth
What is adaptive plasticity?
changes in the brain that compensate to lost functions or damage to the structure
What is synaptic plasticity?
the ability of the synapse to change over time
What is long-term potentiation?
involves the physical changes that strengthen the synapse
- growth of new synaptic connections
What happens in long term potentiation?
- more neurotransmitters
- more receptor sites
- more action potential
- dendrites become bushier
What is long term depression?
is the weakening of a synapse
- no use of connections
What happens in long term depression?
- less neurotransmitters
- less action potential
- less receptor sites
Why is long term depression good?
weakens some synapses that aren’t used
When does the strengthening of a synapse occur?
when the presynaptic and postsynaptic neuron are repeatedly firing and active at the same time
What is a neural pathway?
series of neurons connected to together that send signals from one brain region to another
What is synaptogenesis?
when existing synapses are modified or new synapses are produced during the process of learning
Will a child’s brain or an adult’s brain have more plasticity?
child
