Long Term Synaptic Plasticity and Learning in Neuronal Networks
Abstract
The purpose of this project was to understand rapidly induced and persistent forms of synaptic memory. The properties of the synaptic modifications underlying this plasticity could account for some of the adaptive and self organizing capabilities of simple and well-defined neurobiological networks in the mammalian brain. These can be studied rigorously using neurophysiological and optical techniques. Sprearheading the project effort was the working hypothesis that long-term synaptic potentiation (LTP), a use- dependent enhancement of synaptic transmission, may mediate certain mnemonic functions of hippocampal circuitry and other forebrain structures. The project was organized around four categories of interrelated specific aims. First, new quantal analysis methods were developed and tested (Aim 2) using patch-clamp techniques to stu charge fluctuations of synaptic transmission during LTP at the crayfish neuromuscular junction. Accomplishment of this aim was necessary in order to be able to transfer and apply the new met to analyze and learn the biophysical mechanisms underlying LTP in hippocampal synapses (Aim 1) a much more difficult preparation to study at this level. Learning, Memory, Synaptic plasticity, Adaptive neural networks, Long term synaptic potentiation, Simulations, Modeling.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 14, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA205993
Entities
People
- Thomas H. Brown