CSB332H1 Lecture Notes - Lecture 11: Synaptic Plasticity, Chemical Synapse, Electrical Synapse

48 views3 pages

Document Summary

Plasticity is the capacity of the nervous system to change. Synaptic plasticity = the capacity to alter the strength of synaptic transmission: modifying connections. Short-term (ms - mins, don"t normally require prot synthesis) or long-term (hrs, need prots to maintain long-term, gaba) Change in synapse strength persists after activity (ex. train of. Changes in presynaptic &/or postsynaptic [ca2+]i underlie most forms of synaptic plasticity: ex. phosphorylates ampa recs. Mechanisms often classified as presynaptic or postsynaptic. Long-term potentiation = most-studied form of synaptic plasticity: can be due to presynaptic &/or postsynaptic changes. Most long-term need postsynaptic (need retrograde signalling) Always changes on both sides of synapse: = a change in synaptic efficacy or strength. Stimulating electrode placed in presynaptic cell or bundle of axons & recording electrode placed in postsynaptic cell or muscle. Stimulation of presynaptic cell firing of a presynaptic ap & release of neurotransmitter. Binding of neurotransmitter postsynaptically opens ion channels (ionotropic or metabotropic) synaptic pot recorded postsynaptically.