Ch 3: Neuroprotection & Neuroplasticity

Question 1

What is neuroprotection?

Answer 1

Compound or strategy that limits neuronal death following injury and/or enhances recovery

None approved for human tx of TBI & 1 for CVA (ie: tPA)

Question 2

Neuroplasticity

Answer 2

The ability of the nervous system to change itself, to form new connections and create new neurons in order to compensate for injury or adapt to changes in the environment

Question 3

Axonal sprouting and synaptogenesis

Answer 3

Development of new synapses

Question 4

Exicitotoxicity

Answer 4

Occurs when a neuron cannot maintain its resting potential, resulting in it’s repeated firing.

This creates toxic levels of sodium and calcium ions, leading to cell death.

Question 5

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

Answer 5

Noninvasive method of stimulating the brain using electromagnetic induction.

It is used as a treatment modality for depression, stroke, migraines, dystonia, tinnitus, and Parkinson’s disease.

Question 6

What does neurodegeneration result from?

Answer 6

excitotoxicity, apoptosis, edema, increases in free radicals and immune responses

Question 7

Apoptosis

Answer 7

Programmed cell death initiated by internal genetic cascades

Question 8

Experience dependent learning

Answer 8

as our experiences change so does the brains morphology

Question 9

What is the result of more synapses within a grouping of neurons?

Answer 9

greater speed and efficiency of neuronal communication

Question 10

What is the key aspect of new synapse formation?

Answer 10

the dendrite, their spines are highly excitable and have the ability to change morphology in response to input