Question

Spike-timing dependent plasticity with norepinephrine but no acetylcholine results in:

a) Enhanced plasticity
b) Reduced plasticity
c) Unaltered plasticity
d) Biphasic plasticity

Answer 1

Norepinephrine can enhance spike-timing dependent plasticity (STDP) in the absence of acetylcholine, resulting in enhanced synaptic efficacy and learning.

Step-by-step explanation:

Spike-timing dependent plasticity (STDP) refers to the ability of neurons to adjust the strength of their synaptic connections based on the relative timing of pre- and postsynaptic activity. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that can modulate synaptic plasticity, but its effects depend on other factors such as the presence of acetylcholine. In the absence of acetylcholine, norepinephrine can enhance plasticity by promoting the strengthening of synapses that are active at the same time. This can lead to enhanced synaptic efficacy and learning.