Spike-timing-dependent plasticity

Spike-timing-dependent plasticity (often abbreviated as STDP) is a biological process that adjusts the strength of connections between neurons in the brain. The process is named for its dependence on the precise timing of spikes in electrical activity.

Overview

STDP is a form of synaptic plasticity, which is the ability of the connections between neurons to change in strength. In STDP, the change in strength is not just dependent on the rate of pre-synaptic and post-synaptic spikes, but also on the timing between them. This is a form of Hebbian learning, where the strength of a synapse is increased if the synapse persistently assists in firing the post-synaptic neuron.

Mechanism

The basic mechanism of STDP is that if an input spike (a spike from the pre-synaptic neuron) is followed by an output spike (a spike from the post-synaptic neuron), the synapse is strengthened. Conversely, if an output spike is followed by an input spike, the synapse is weakened. This is often summarized by the phrase "fire together, wire together".

Role in Learning and Memory

STDP is thought to be important for learning and memory. It is one of the ways that the brain changes in response to experience, a process known as neuroplasticity. STDP is also thought to be involved in the development of the brain's circuitry during early life.

See Also

• Hebbian theory
• Long-term potentiation
• Neuroplasticity