Question

Neurons that __________ together, __________ together. a. grow; sow b. lie; die c. synapse; degrade d. fire; wire

Short answer

d. fire; wire

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Missing Words

The phrase 'Neurons that __________ together, __________ together' is asking for words that complete a well-known saying in neuroscience.

Recall the Neural Principle

In neuroscience, there is a famous principle that states 'Neurons that fire together, wire together.' This phrase emphasizes the idea that the connections between neurons become stronger when they are activated simultaneously.

Match with Provided Options

Review each of the options: - a. grow; sow - b. lie; die - c. synapse; degrade - d. fire; wire. The correct answer is option d. 'fire; wire', which matches the well-known scientific adage.

Key concepts

Neurons

Neurons are the building blocks of the brain and the entire nervous system. They are specialized cells responsible for transmitting information throughout the body. Neurons communicate through electrical and chemical signals, enabling us to perform complex functions like thinking, feeling, and moving.

A typical neuron consists of three main parts: the cell body, dendrites, and axon. The cell body contains the nucleus and is the metabolic center. Dendrites are branching structures that receive signals from other neurons. The axon is a long, thin structure that transmits signals to other neurons or muscles.

One fascinating feature of neurons is their ability to process and transmit information quickly. They achieve this through a process known as action potential, an electrical pulse that travels down the axon to communicate with other cells. Without neurons, our brains would not function, and essential processes like breathing and heartbeats would be impossible.

Neural Connections

Neural connections refer to the links between neurons that allow them to communicate with each other. These connections are formed at junctions known as synapses, where the axon terminal of one neuron meets the dendrite of another.

Communication across the synapse involves the release of chemicals called neurotransmitters, which are triggered by electrical signals. When these neurotransmitters cross the synaptic gap and bind to receptors on the receiving neuron, it can generate a new electrical signal.

The strength and number of neural connections can change throughout our lives. This is crucial for learning and memory. For instance, the more we practice a skill, the stronger and more efficient these connections become. This adaptability is a testament to the brain's remarkable ability to reorganize itself based on experiences and feedback from the environment.

• Neurons communicate via synapses.
• Neurotransmitters facilitate synaptic communication.
• Stronger connections result from repetition and practice.

Synaptic Plasticity

Synaptic plasticity is the ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken over time in response to increases or decreases in their activity. This concept is at the heart of learning and memory.

One well-known principle illustrating synaptic plasticity is "Neurons that fire together, wire together." This phrase means that if two neurons are activated at the same time repeatedly, the synaptic connection between them becomes stronger. Conversely, if they are rarely activated together, the connection weakens.

Synaptic plasticity manifests in two main forms—long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD).

**Long-term Potentiation (LTP):** This is the process by which synaptic connections become stronger with frequent stimulation. It is considered vital for learning and forming memories.

**Long-term Depression (LTD):** Alternatively, synaptic strengths can diminish when neurons are less frequently active together, allowing the brain to selectively erase useless information and make room for new data.

• "Fire together, wire together" encapsulates synaptic strengthening.
• LTP is related to enhanced synaptic strength.
• LTD involves the weakening of synaptic connections.