The Neuron and Neuroplasticity

• Neuroplasticity is the ability of the neural networks in the brain to change in response to experience or in response to injury
• A neuron is an individual cell that receives, processes and/or transmits information to other cells
• Synaptogenesis - involved the formation of new synapses between the brain's
• The rapid increase in synapses allows a child's brain to develop and change as the child learns new skills
• Synaptic pruning is when weak or unused connections are eliminated
• By developing new connections and pruning away weak ones, the brain can adapt to the constantly changing environment unique to each person
•  Brain trauma = damage that may occur to parts of the brain responsible for certain functions, resulting in a lowered or complete inability to perform those functions
• Neuroplasticity can help repair neural pathways or form new ones to compensate for lost functions and therefore restore some abilities following brain trauma
• When neurons die they typically cannot regenerate, meaning that the remaining healthy neurons need to take up the slack
• Two of the processes that are involved in neuroplasticity following brain trauma are rerouting and sprouting
• Rerouting: healthy neurons create alternative neural pathways when existing connections are lost
• Sprouting: existing neurons form new axon terminals and dendrites to allow new connections to be made
• Neuroplasticity following brain trauma right after the injury:

  • Neuron death occurs
  • Secondary neural networks that have rarely been used are uncovered

   
• Neuroplasticity following brain trauma 2 days after injury:

  • Synaptogenesis creates new synapses
  • Neurons and other cells replace damaged cells and promote healing (via rerouting and sprouting)
• Neuroplasticity following brain trauma a few weeks after injury:

  • Synaptogenesis continues, sprouting increases and the processes allowing for the remodelling of the brain are at their highest
  • Rehab and therapy can help to promote these changes to recover some function
  • Success of recovery will depend on the age of the patient, the location of the injury and its severity