Synaptic plasticity, learning and memory (3 CFU) Molecular
and cellular mechanisms for synaptic and neuronal plasticity as the basis for learning and memory in the nervous system. Short term and long term plasticity. Long term potentiation and long term depression, presynaptic and Hebbian mechanisms and Spike time dependent plasticity. Homeostatic plasticity. Activity dependent gene expression. Local translational control of gene expression at synapses. Neuro-epigenetics and long term transcriptional changes. The physiology of memory systems. Memory formation, consolidation, reconsolidation and erasure. Engrams and the nature of memory traces. Plasticity and critical periods: the visual systems plasticity. Plasticity of neuronal circuits, reorganization and remodeling of circuits. Maladaptive plasticity and drug abuse. Chronic pain as a form of maladaptive plasticity. Adult neurogenesis and aging (3 CFU): mechanisms of adult neurogenesis and its modulation by experience and during aging. Adult neurogenesis , learning and memory. Aging of the brain: morphological and physiological changes. Systemic and metabolic control of aging, role of the hypothalamus calorie restriction and IGFI