Neuroplasticity Flashcards
(22 cards)
What is hemispheric specialisation?
The idea that one hemisphere has specialised functions and exerts greater control over a particular function.
What are the functions of the left hemisphere?
Receives and processes sensations from the right side of the body, controls right-side voluntary movements, word tasks (speech comprehension, reading, writing), analysis, and logical reasoning.
What are the functions of the right hemisphere?
Receives and processes sensations from the left side of the body, controls left-side voluntary movements, non-verbal tasks, spatial and visual thinking, creativity, fantasy and daydreaming, and recognising emotions.
What is neurodegeneration?
Brain cells getting damaged or dying over time, often causing memory or movement problems.
What are neurological disorders?
Diseases characterised by any damage to or malfunctioning of the nervous system.
What is Parkinson’s disease?
A brain disorder that mainly affects movement. It happens when certain brain cells that make dopamine slowly die.
What are the symptoms of Parkinson’s?
Shaking (tremors), stiff muscles, slow movement, balance problems, trouble walking (shuffling).
What is the role of dopamine in Parkinson’s?
Dopamine from the Substantia Nigra carries messages on how to control body movement. Fewer neurons in the SN means less dopamine is produced, leading to fewer/irregular messages about motor activity.
What is neuroplasticity?
The ability of the brain and other parts of the nervous system to change in response to experiences over the lifespan.
What is developmental plasticity?
Refers to the change in the brain’s neural structure in response to experiences during its growth and development.
What is adaptive plasticity?
Refers to changes in the brain that help it adjust and/or maximise use in the case of brain damage.
What is synaptogenesis?
The formation of synapses between neurons as axon terminals and dendrites grow.
What is synaptic pruning?
The elimination of underused synapses.
What is myelination?
The formation and development of myelin around the axon of a neuron.
What is sprouting?
The ability of a neuron to develop new branches on dendrites or axon.
What is rerouting?
A neuron’s ability to form a new connection with another undamaged neuron.
What is brain trauma?
An injury to the brain that affects how you think, feel, or act.
What is acquired brain injury?
Any brain trauma acquired after birth.
What is traumatic brain injury?
Damage caused by an external force.
What is non-traumatic brain injury?
Damage caused by an internal factor.
What is a concussion?
A mild traumatic brain injury (TBI).
What is chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)?
A brain disease caused by many TBIs. Can only be diagnosed post-mortem.
