Ability of the nervous system to change its structure (anatomy) and
its operation throughout its life, in response to the diversity of the
environment.
Changes at different levels in the nervous system
The brain has a
considerable number
reservation neurons to
modulate either the input
information as the
complexity of responses.
Neural circuits that require large concentrations of neurons are able to adjust
the new entries of information and adjust their synaptic connections (neural
links). Also, to store memories, interpret and issue efficient responses to any
stimulus or generate new learning.
Molecular events (such as changes in gene
expression) to behavior
Neuroplasticity
or cortical
mapping.
Factors
Age
In our early years we acquire neuro-developmental learning to adapt to
certain events and functions (displacement, communication, social
interaction).
Synaptic pruning
Neurons that are frequently
used develop and strengthen
connections more than those
rarely used. Neurons that are
never used die..
Life experience
The so-called repetitive training and
care during the execution of the
tasks, they can improve neural
connections and make them
functional, thus achieving greater
learning capacity and speed of
memory recall.
Environment and genetics
William James suggested
that the brain was not
perhaps as unchanging as
previously believed: "Matter
organic, especially nervous
tissue, it seems endowed
with an extraordinary
degree of plasticity "
Main types
Synaptic plasticity
Whenever you acquire new knowledge (through repeated
practice), the communication or transmission synaptic
between neurons involved is strengthened.
Neurogenesis
Birth and proliferation of new neurons in the
brain.
Functional plasticity
Age-related deficits and decreased
synaptic plasticity associated with
aging, some elderly reorganize their
neurocognitive networks., activate
other neural pathways, and more
often active regions in both
hemispheres (which only occurs in
older people).