Physiology · MU Sofia

103. Neurophysiological basis of learning and memory

Covers how learning and memory rest on synaptic plasticity, then walks through memory types: short-term (sensory and working) and long-term (declarative and non-declarative), with the brain structures tied to each. It goes on to encoding, storage and retrieval, the mechanisms behind short- and long-term storage, and non-associative and associative learning. It closes with the dopamine, acetylcholine and serotonin systems linked to operant conditioning, followed by recap questions.

Inside: 1 section · 7 labelled pictures · 26 flashcards · 4 min

Topic 102 of 104 in the MU Sofia syllabus for Physiology (Medicine, Year 2). The free AceMed note covers it in 1 section, about 613 words (4 min of reading), with 26 flashcards.

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  1. Neurophysiological basis of learning and memory.

Neurophysiological basis of learning and memory.

Learning is the process of acquiring new information or behaviors as a result of experience, leading to a relatively permanent change in behavior. This involves modifications in the connections and communication patterns within neural networks, a concept known as synaptic plasticity. Memory is the ability to encode, store, and retrieve this learned information for future use.

Types of Memory:

  • Short-term memory: Has limited capacity, requires repetition for maintenance, and is easily disrupted. Short-term memory includes sensory memory, which stores specific patterns of sensory activity, and working memory, which integrates short-term memory with long-term memory access for complex cognitive tasks.
  • Long-term memory: Characterized by vast capacity and enduring storage. Long-term memory can be further classified into:
  • Declarative (explicit) memory: Consciously recalled "what" memories, encompassing facts (semantic) and personal experiences (episodic). Declarative memory formation involves the hippocampus, thalamus, and frontal lobes. Structures involved are -Hippocampus, thalamus, frontal lobes.
  • Non-declarative (implicit) memory: Unconsciously retrieved "how-to" memories, including skills, habits, and conditioned responses. Non-declarative memory relies on structures like the motor cortex, cerebellum, and basal ganglia. Structures involved are - Motor cortex, cerebellum, basal ganglia.

Key Processes in Memory:

  1. 1. Encoding: The initial processing and transformation of information into a neural representation suitable for storage.
  2. 2. Storage: The retention of encoded information over time, involving changes in synaptic strength and the formation of new neural connections.
  3. 3. Retrieval (Remembering): Accessing and bringing stored information back into conscious awareness or using it to guide behavior.

Mechanisms of Information Storage:

  • Short-Term Memory:
  • Specific patterns of neuronal activity that outlast the initiating stimulus.
  • Reverberating circuits that maintain information for several hours.
  • Functional modifications in synaptic transmission, such as altered neurotransmitter release.
  • Long-Term Memory:
  • Structural changes in neurons, including the formation of new synapses (synaptogenesis), the growth of dendrites, and alterations in the number of receptors.
  • Changes in protein synthesis essential for long-lasting modifications in synaptic structure and function.

Types of Learning:

  • Non-associative Learning: Changes in behavior due to repeated exposure to a single stimulus. Examples include habituation (decreased response to a repeated, non-threatening stimulus. Decreased ↓neurotransmitter release leads to less sensitivity,) and sensitization (is produced by painful stimuli, increased ↑neurotransmitter release leads to the painful/nauseous feeling.

The increase is due to presynaptic interneuron adding neurotransmitters to the synaptic terminal).

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