Brain Plasticity And Functional Recovery

Question 1

What is Brian plasticity

Answer 1

Brian adapts in both functions and structure from a change in the environment. Changes could be due to damage, or to meet cognitive demands for new skill

Question 2

What is functional recovery

Answer 2

Functions performed by brain areas that are lost/undamaged (neuronal cell death) are performed by undamaged areas - (Functional Reorganization)

Question 3

What is Synaptic pruning

Answer 3

• Frequently used synapses become stronger over time whilst unused synaptic communications are lost
• makes brain more efficient communication system

Question 4

What is axonal sprouting

Answer 4

• existing neurons grow new axons to connect to adjacent neurons

Question 5

What is neuronal regeneration

Answer 5

Growth of new neuronal cells

Question 6

What did Maguire (2000) find?

Answer 6

Correlation of increased posterior hippocampi volume and taxi drivers knowledge - experience of being taxi driver changes brain

Question 7

AO3 Strength point

Answer 7

Supportive evidence that brain remains capable of reorganization throughout lifespan

Question 8

AO3 Strength evidence

Answer 8

Bezzola (2012) - 40 hours of golf training changed neural activity in 40-60 year olds - reduced motor cortex activity in novice golfers compared to control group

Question 9

AO3 Limitation point

Answer 9

Younger individuals generally experiencing better functional recovery outcomes

Question 10

AO3 Limitation evidence

Answer 10

Plata (2008) found younger patients higher likelihood of better recovery than older individuals when recovering from traumatic brain injury - younger brains exhibit more robust neuroplasticity so more effective reorganization