Brain Neuroplasticity, also referred to as neural plasticity, is the fundamental physiological capacity of the central nervous system to reorganize its structure, functions, and synaptic connections in response to experience, learning, or injury. This essential biological property allows the brain to adapt throughout the entire lifespan by forming new neural pathways, altering existing connections, and sometimes generating new neurons. Hormonal signaling, particularly from sex steroids and growth factors, significantly influences the efficiency of this adaptive process.
Origin
The term is a compound of ‘Neuro,’ referring to the nervous system, and ‘Plasticity,’ derived from the Greek plastikos, meaning “capable of being molded.” This core concept revolutionized neuroscience by shifting the historical view of the adult brain from a fixed, immutable structure to a highly dynamic, continuously adaptable organ.
Mechanism
The underlying mechanism involves specific changes at the cellular and molecular level, notably long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD), which modify the strength and efficiency of synaptic transmission. Neurotrophins, such such as Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), are essential mediators that actively promote neuronal survival, differentiation, and synaptogenesis. Hormones like estrogen and testosterone interact directly with neuronal receptors to influence the gene expression and protein synthesis critical for these structural and functional reorganizations.
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