Neuroplasticity Overview

Study Notes

Neuroplasticity is the capacity of the central nervous system (CNS) to adapt to functional demands, leading to the system's ability to reorganise.
Brain processes are continuously reshaped throughout life, primarily by the use of a system.
This remodelling is a dynamic process, not a fixed structure.
This includes changes in neural connections throughout life.
The parallel and distributed nature of brain organization contributes to this flexibility and adaptability.
Factors like training, increased use of a body part, and sensory feedback enhance plasticity.

Neuroplasticity is enabled by neurochemical, neuroreceptive, and neurostructural mechanisms.

Training impacts the strength of existing neural connections, and the emergence of new connections.
Training specific reaching activities in rats show increased dendritic arborization in motor and sensory cortices.
This demonstrates functional changes in the brain (human and animal) due to training and use.

LTP is a long-term enhancement of communication between two neurons.
This occurs from stimulating the neurons simultaneously.
This enhances synaptic transmission.
LTP improves the postsynaptic cell's sensitivity to neurotransmitters, mainly by increasing existing receptor activity and adding more receptors to the postsynaptic cell.

LTD weakens neuronal synapses selectively.
This balance of LTP and LTD is necessary for constructive use of synaptic strengthening.
This concept follows the phrase, "use it or lose it."

Humans adapt and reorganise throughout their lives in response to external demands.
This plasticity is tied to structural and functional changes in the CNS.
Training and using a body part, along with sensory feedback, enhances plasticity.