Long term potentiation
Long Term Potentiation
Long Term Potentiation (LTP) is a long-lasting enhancement in signal transmission between two neurons that results from stimulating them synchronously. It is one of several phenomena underlying synaptic plasticity, the ability of chemical synapses to change their strength. As memories are thought to be encoded by modification of synaptic strength, LTP is widely considered one of the major cellular mechanisms that underlies learning and memory.
Pronunciation
Long Term Potentiation: /lɔːŋ tɜːm pəʊtɛnʃɪˈeɪʃən/
Etymology
The term "Long Term Potentiation" comes from the longevity of the phenomenon (long-term) and its effect on synaptic strength (potentiation).
Related Terms
- Synaptic Plasticity: The ability of the connection, or synapse, between two neurons to change in strength in response to either an increase or decrease in activity.
- Neuron: A specialized cell transmitting nerve impulses; a nerve cell.
- Synapse: A junction between two nerve cells, consisting of a minute gap across which impulses pass by diffusion of a neurotransmitter.
- Neurotransmitter: Chemicals that transmit signals from a neuron to a target cell across a synapse.
- Memory: The faculty by which the mind stores and remembers information.
- Learning: The acquisition of knowledge or skills through experience, study, or by being taught.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Long term potentiation
- Wikipedia's article - Long term potentiation
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