Plasticity and functional recovery

• What does plasticity refer to in the brain?

  The brain's ability to modify structure and function
• When is plasticity greatest in the brain?

  During the developing brain
• Is plasticity limited to childhood?

  No, it occurs throughout adult life
• What happens to synaptic connections during infancy?

  Rapid growth in the number of connections
• What is neural pruning?

  Weakening of unused neural pathways
• What is functional recovery of the brain?

  • A form of plasticity
  • Redistributes functions from damaged areas
  • Transfers functions to undamaged areas
• What is axon sprouting?

  Growth of new nerve endings connecting to others
• What is denervation supersensitivity?

  Axons become more aroused to compensate
• What are homologous areas in the brain?

  Similar areas on opposite sides of the brain
• What was the key study in plasticity research?

  • Maguire et al (2000)
  • Studied London taxi drivers
  • Examined brain structure related to navigation
• What test must London cab drivers take?

  The 'Knowledge' test for city navigation
• What was found in the posterior hippocampus of taxi drivers?

  More volume of grey matter
• How does experience affect the structural difference in taxi drivers' brains?

  Longer experience leads to more pronounced differences
• What are the implications of Maguire et al's findings on brain plasticity?

  • Supports the idea of structural changes with experience
  • Highlights the brain's adaptability to environmental demands
  • Suggests potential for recovery after brain injury