Chapter 10 Flashcards
(26 cards)
What is brain plasticity?
The brain’s ability to change and adapt by reshaping neurons and their connections throughout life.
When does brain plasticity occur?
During development, learning, and recovery from brain injury.
What is synaptic plasticity?
The process by which neurons alter their ability to communicate by changing the strength of their synaptic connections.
What happens to synapses during learning?
Useful connections strengthen, rarely used connections weaken or are lost (pruned).
What is the “use it or lose it” principle?
Synapses that are active are maintained; inactive ones are eliminated.
What chemical is released at synapses to transmit signals?
Neurotransmitters.
What do neurotransmitters activate on the receiving neuron?
Protein molecules called receptors.
How can synaptic strength change?
It can vary from seconds to a lifetime, depending on neuronal activity.
What is Long-Term Potentiation (LTP)?
A long-lasting increase in synaptic strength.
What is Long-Term Depression (LTD)?
A long-lasting decrease in synaptic strength.
What neurotransmitter is key for synaptic plasticity?
Glutamate.
Name the four types of glutamate receptors.
AMPA, NMDA, kainate (ionotropic), and mGluR (metabotropic).
What is the function of AMPA receptors?
They quickly open ion channels to create excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs).
How are NMDA receptors different from AMPA receptors?
NMDA receptors detect strong synaptic activity and allow calcium ions (Ca2+) into the neuron, triggering plasticity.
Why are NMDA receptors blocked at rest?
By magnesium ions (Mg2+), which are expelled during strong depolarization.
What role does Ca2+ entering through NMDA receptors play?
It activates enzymes and protein changes that initiate memory formation.
How do AMPA receptors express synaptic changes?
By increasing their number or efficiency at the synapse, resulting in stronger signals (LTP).
What happens during LTD in relation to AMPA receptors?
The number or efficiency of AMPA receptors decreases.
What happens to synapses during long-term memory formation?
Synapses can grow bigger or new synapses may form; inactive synapses may shrink or die.
How is mental exercise like physical exercise?
Using brain pathways strengthens and organizes synaptic connections.
How do emotions affect learning?
Emotional states release neuromodulators that enhance attention and memory formation.
Name some neuromodulators involved in learning.
Acetylcholine, dopamine, noradrenaline, and cortisol.
How do neuromodulators affect NMDA receptors?
They modify NMDA receptor function and activate genes related to learning.
Can the brain recover after injury?
Yes, through plasticity, other neurons can adapt and take over lost functions.
