Neural basis of learning

Neural basis of learning

1. Synapse formation during learning

   • Involves creation of new neural pathways OR the strengthening of existing neural pathways.
     • Neural pathway - bundle of myelin-covered neurons (white matter) that provide a connection between one part of the nervous system and another
   • Involves synaptogenesis
     • Synaptogenesis -process of moulding or forming new synapses are formed

2. Synapse

   • Made up of axon terminal (presynaptic neuron), synaptic gap and dendrite (postsynaptic nueron)
   • During learning the presynaptic neuron releases glutamate into the synaptic gap.
     • Glutamate the main excitatory neurotransmitter involved in learning The repeated release of glutamate releases dopamine and leads to an increase in dendritic spines - growth from the dendrites toward the axon terminals.
   • When new learning occurs the neurons form new connections with each other.
     • 'Sprouts' - term for the new growth that occurs from the axon terminals towards dendrites
       • It is okay to say that new 'sprouts' rather than fifgree appendages occur when something is learned.
     • New growth also occurs between dendrites towards the axon terminals. This makes the dendrites more sensitive to future firing from neighbouring neurons.

3. Strengthening of neural pathway

   • Enables the newly learnt information to be transferred from one neuron to the next.
   • The more the neural pathway is activated during learning the more it is strengthened and the less likely learning will be forgotten.
   • If a particular neural pathways are not activated the learning may be forgotten; synapses become weakened through infrequent use.

4. Study of neurobiological basis of learning has just begun!

   • The more we understand the more we can apply our understanding to treat phobias, learning disabilities, psychological orders etc.