Question

In the phrase "associative long-term potentiation," the term associative means [ Select ] , the term long-term means [ Select ] , and the term potentiation means [ Select ] .

1) related to
2) short-term
3) memory
4) strengthening of synapses

Answer 1

The term 'associative' in associative long-term potentiation means related to, 'long-term' refers to a prolonged duration, and 'potentiation' signifies the strengthening of synapses. Associative LTP is a synaptic strengthening that is important for learning and memory, particularly within the hippocampus, supported by synaptic plasticity mechanisms involving changes in the number of AMPA receptors.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the phrase "associative long-term potentiation," the term associative means related to, the term long-term means strengthening of synapses over an extended period, and the term potentiation means strengthening of synapses. Associative LTP refers to the synaptic strengthening that occurs when multiple synapses simultaneously become active, suggesting that they are related in a way that promotes stronger connections between the involved neurons. This phenomenon supports the Hebbian theory that 'cells that fire together, wire together' and is fundamental to learning and memory processes within the brain, especially within the hippocampus.

Synaptic plasticity is the ability of synapses to strengthen (LTP) or weaken (LTD), allowing the nervous system to adapt and change in response to experiences. Long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD) are both crucial for the transmission of impulses across synapses, with LTP increasing the efficiency of synaptic transmission and LTD reducing it. These processes are essential for learning, memory formation, and the pruning of synaptic connections.