What is the definition of brain plasticity?

In summary, neuroplasticity refers to the brain's ability to change and adapt based on experience and damage. This can range from taking over functions of damaged areas to the specialization and death of unused neurons as the brain ages. The concept can also include the process of learning from mistakes and rewiring itself.
  • #1
sameeralord
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3
Hello everyone,

Ok I read the definitions. I think it is how the brain learns from mistakes, and remembers stuff and rewires itself. But I would still like to get someone's else's opinion on this. Thanks :smile:
 
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  • #2
Usually when you're talking about neuroplasticity, you're talking about the ability of certain brain areas to take over functions of the brain that have been damaged.

As an extreme example, you can actually remove an entire hemisphere of the brain in early life, and the remaining hemisphere will take over most of the functions of the missing hemisphere. You can't do this with adults. As the brain ages it specializes based on which neurons are used. The ones that aren't used actually undergo apoptosis and die. Therefore brain plasticity reduces with age.

In a general sense, though, neuroplasticity could refer to any ability for the brain to change from experience.
 
  • #3
Thanks :smile:
 
  • #4
sameeralord said:
Hello everyone,

Ok I read the definitions. I think it is how the brain learns from mistakes, and remembers stuff and rewires itself. But I would still like to get someone's else's opinion on this. Thanks :smile:

sameeralord,

You might want to have a look over https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=422276". I think you will be pleasantly surprised. You could have found it using the search feature by entering your keywords too.

Rhody... :grumpy:
 
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  • #5


Hello,

Brain plasticity, also known as neuroplasticity, refers to the brain's ability to change and adapt throughout a person's lifetime. This includes the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections and pathways, as well as the ability to modify existing connections. It is a fundamental process that allows the brain to learn, store memories, and recover from injury. Brain plasticity is a crucial aspect of brain development and plays a significant role in learning, memory, and behavior. It is a complex and ongoing process that is influenced by various factors such as experiences, environment, and genetics. I hope this helps to clarify the concept of brain plasticity.
 

1. What is brain plasticity?

Brain plasticity, also known as neuroplasticity, refers to the brain's ability to change and adapt throughout an individual's lifetime. This includes the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections and pathways, as well as modifying existing ones.

2. How does brain plasticity occur?

Brain plasticity occurs through a process called synaptic pruning, where unused or weak connections between neurons are eliminated, and through neurogenesis, the formation of new neurons. These processes are influenced by a variety of factors, including experiences, learning, and environmental stimuli.

3. What are the benefits of brain plasticity?

The benefits of brain plasticity include the ability to learn new skills and information, recover from brain injuries or diseases, and adapt to changes in the environment. It also allows the brain to constantly rewire itself and improve its functioning.

4. Can brain plasticity be improved?

Yes, brain plasticity can be improved through activities that stimulate the brain, such as learning new things, practicing skills, and engaging in physical exercise. These activities can help strengthen existing connections and create new ones, enhancing the brain's plasticity.

5. Is brain plasticity limited to a certain age?

No, brain plasticity can occur at any age, although it may be more pronounced during early childhood when the brain is still developing. However, research has shown that the brain retains its ability to change and adapt throughout adulthood and even into old age.

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