What is meant by plasticity of the brain Why is this important?

Neuroplasticity – or brain plasticity – is the ability of the brain to modify its connections or re-wire itself. Without this ability, any brain, not just the human brain, would be unable to develop from infancy through to adulthood or recover from brain injury.

What is the mechanism of action of valproic acid?

Mechanism of Action Valproic acid exhibits its pharmacologic effects in a couple of ways, such as by acting on GABA (γ aminobutyric acid) levels in the CNS, blocking voltage-gated ion channels, and inhibiting histone deacetylase.

What is the relationship between brain plasticity and memory?

Plasticity of Learning and Memory Learning, as defined by Tortora and Grabowski (1996), is the ability to acquire new knowledge or skills through instruction or experience. Memory is the process by which that knowledge is retained over time. The capacity of the brain to change with learning is plasticity.

What is brain plasticity and functional recovery?

Brain plasticity refers to the brain’s ability to change and adapt because of experience. The brain also appears to show evidence of functional recovery: the transfer of functions from a damaged area of the brain after trauma to other undamaged areas.

What does valproic acid do to the brain?

It’s not fully understood how this medicine works for treating bipolar disorder. However valproic acid is thought to reduce or prevent manic episodes by increasing the amount of a chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA blocks transmission across nerves in the brain and has a calming effect.

What does valproic acid inhibit?

Valproic acid inhibits the activity of CYP2C9 at clinically relevant concentrations in human liver microsomes. Inhibition of CYP2C9 can explain some of the effects of valproic acid on the pharmacokinetics of other drugs, such as phenytoin.

Why is the brain considered plastic?

Neuroplasticity, or brain plasticity, refers to the brain’s ability to CHANGE throughout life. The human brain has the amazing ability to reorganize itself by forming new connections between brain cells (neurons).

Why is synaptic plasticity important?

Synaptic plasticity controls how effectively two neurons communicate with each other. The strength of communication between two synapses can be likened to the volume of a conversation.

When is brain plasticity the strongest?

-brain plasticity varies with age, being strongest in infancy and early childhood and gradually decreasing with age.