The clinical or lifestyle strategy aimed at enhancing the strength, number, and efficiency of synaptic connections between neurons, which is the physical basis of learning and memory. Stimulation involves introducing targeted agents or specific cognitive training to promote long-term potentiation and synaptic remodeling. It is a cornerstone of proactive cognitive health.
Origin
The term is derived from neuroscience, where ‘synaptic plasticity’ describes the dynamic nature of neuronal junctions. ‘Stimulation’ denotes the deliberate effort to augment this natural process for therapeutic benefit.
Mechanism
Stimulation protocols often involve agents that modulate neurotransmitter systems, such as glutamate and acetylcholine, which are critical for synaptic communication. Hormones like estrogen and testosterone also play a direct role by influencing the expression of genes related to synaptic structure. The core mechanism is the upregulation of signaling pathways that lead to the insertion of new receptors into the postsynaptic membrane, thereby strengthening the signal transmission across the synapse.
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