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The mysterious memory formation: How the brain learns new things through neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity of the brain is key to understanding human learning and memory formation. As scientific research continues to advance, experts are increasingly aware that neuroplasticity is not only a biological phenomenon, but also a complex operating system involving structural changes and functional adaptation of neurons. This “activity-dependent plasticity” is the biological basis for how we learn new things and form memories, and arises directly from everyday cognitive functions and personal experiences.
Activity-dependent plasticity takes internal activities as an opportunity to demonstrate the brain's ability to transform itself.
Activity-dependent plasticity is mainly promoted by intrinsic activities under the influence of external stimuli. This allows the brain to preserve memory and improve functions such as motor ability and language understanding by shaping neural structures. In this process, different signaling factors such as calcium, relaxing dopamine, and glutamate change gene expression by activating signaling pathways, thereby enhancing neuronal activity. For example, if a right-hander often practices using his left hand to perform actions, he will gradually become more flexible with both hands over time. This is a concrete manifestation of activity-dependent plasticity.
The history of neuroplasticity
The concept of neuroplasticity was first proposed by William James in 1890. Over time, this theory has encountered widespread skepticism in the scientific community. Many scientists believe that the development of the adult brain is almost finalized, and that after a critical period, the functions of various brain areas are fixed. However, some pioneers paved the way for this theory through experimental demonstration of brain plasticity.
The brain’s neuroplasticity allows us to learn and grow even in the face of many challenges.
Pioneers of activity-dependent plasticity
In the field of activity-dependent plasticity, the experiments of Paul Bach and Rita are crucial. He creatively designed experiments that demonstrated that the brain can adapt and change during use. By projecting tactile images on blind people, he showed how humans can "see" their surroundings by touching them with their tongues. The research raises questions about brain function and its plasticity.
The research of renowned neuroscientist Michael Mezenich also provides us with a wealth of insights. By observing major somatosensory cortical reorganization in adult monkeys, he revealed how neurons change in response to activity. His discoveries not only helped with adolescent development and those with language learning disabilities, but also led to the development of the "Rapid Word Presentation" program, designed to improve children's cognitive skills.
The structure and function of neurons
Neurons are the basic functional units of the brain, processing and transmitting information through signals. In the brain, different types of neurons operate cooperatively, forming a huge information network. Each neuron communicates through synapses, releasing chemical messages that influence the activity of other neurons. These diverse interactions of chemical balances and signals promote neuroplasticity.
The change in every neuron may be the key to learning and memory.
Mechanisms of activity-dependent plasticity
Activity-dependent plasticity involves multiple mechanisms, including long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD), rapid synaptic growth and cell proliferation, etc. These mechanisms all involve membrane depolarization and calcium ion influx, driving functional changes in cells. When neural activity increases, the expression of genes associated with it also changes, and the interaction of this process can influence learning and memory formation.
Relevance of behavior
Intellectual disability and plasticity
Because plasticity is a crucial part of brain function, its normal regulation is important for brain development, repair, and cognitive processes. Mutations in related genes are often directly related to intellectual disability, affecting an individual's cognitive ability and understanding.
Stroke rehabilitation
Even when faced with the challenges of intellectual disability, people have the opportunity to regain some of their lost abilities. Bach and Rita's father was left paralyzed due to a stroke. After a series of training, he almost returned to normal life. This suggests that continued challenge and practice stimulate brain plasticity, helping people relearn lost skills.
The impact of pressure
However, ongoing stress can also have a negative impact on brain plasticity, affecting memory retention and learning abilities. Scientists are exploring how to respond to the effects of stress by modulating mechanisms related to plasticity to improve cognitive function in humans.
Future research prospects
Research on activity-dependent plasticity is promising, as it can help us treat many neurological diseases, such as autism, intellectual disability, schizophrenia and stroke. By exploring these mechanisms in greater depth, we may be able to uncover the mysteries of memory and learning.
Plasticity not only makes our brains operate more flexibly, but also builds the basis for different abilities. So, with the development of science and technology, how can we use this knowledge to improve our learning abilities and quality of life?
