What is the Origin of Hippocampus Plasticity?

The concept combines the specific brain structure, the "hippocampus," with "plasticity," a term from neuroscience describing the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new synaptic connections. This idea fundamentally shifted the view of the adult brain from a static organ to a continuously adaptable system. Research into this area is vital for understanding and reversing age-related memory deficits.

What is the Mechanism of Hippocampus Plasticity?

The core mechanism of plasticity involves the strengthening of synaptic connections, known as long-term potentiation (LTP), and the generation of new neurons from neural stem cells, or adult neurogenesis. Hormones, particularly estradiol and testosterone, modulate this mechanism by increasing the expression of key neurotrophic factors like BDNF and regulating NMDA receptor function. These molecular changes facilitate the efficient storage and retrieval of new information.

Hippocampus Plasticity ∞ Area

Hippocampus Plasticity

Meaning

Hippocampus plasticity refers to the remarkable capacity of this brain region to undergo structural and functional changes in response to experience, learning, and environmental factors throughout life. This dynamic adaptability, which includes processes like long-term potentiation and neurogenesis, is the cellular basis for memory encoding and retrieval. Supporting hippocampus plasticity is a fundamental goal in enhancing cognitive function and resilience against neurodegeneration.