Final answer:
Long-term potentiation (LTP) strengthens synaptic connections with repeated stimulation, nicotine addiction by reinforcing the brain's reward pathways.
Step-by-step explanation:
Long-term potentiation (LTP) is a key mechanism in the synaptic strengthening that underlies learning and memory, but it can also contribute to the development of nicotine addiction. When nicotine binds to acetylcholine receptors on neurons, it simulates the effect of acetylcholine and leads to the release of dopamine, which is associated with the brain's reward pathways.
Repeated exposure to nicotine reinforces the synaptic connections involved in this pathway, leading to increased dopaminergic activity and cravings, similar to how LTP strengthens connections from repeated stimulation. As a physiological change, LTP thus supports the brain's association between nicotine use and its pleasurable effects, cementing the addiction.
Despite smoking cessation means, such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), successfully reducing withdrawal symptoms, the long-term success rate is low, with around 90 percent of individuals relapsing within a year. This can be partially attributed to the persistent changes in synaptic strength due to LTP, which continue to drive cravings for nicotine long after cessation of its use.