key term - Long-Term Potentiation

Definition

Long-Term Potentiation (LTP) is a persistent strengthening of synapses based on recent patterns of activity. This is thought to be a key mechanism behind learning and memory.

Related terms

Synaptic Plasticity:

The ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken over time in response to increases or decreases in their activity.

Neurotransmitters:

Chemicals that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.

Hebbian Theory: A theory proposing that neurons that fire together wire together, meaning connections between neurons become stronger with frequent activation.