Neural connections formed while learning can change the brain's structure
A group of researchers at Thomas Jefferson University utilized super-resolution live-cell microscopy to visualize connections between neurons strengthening in real-time that produced structural changes in the brain while a subject was learning.
The findings were published online April 23 in Nature Neuroscience.
"Our observations give the field a new way of thinking about how normal learning and the maladaptive learning we see in disorders, such as addiction or autism, might occur," said Matthew Dalva professor of neuroscience at the Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience at Thomas Jefferson University in a release.
Previous research has recorded these larger connections during learning, but Dalva and his team discovered the molecules involved in sending and receiving signals between neurons were organized in clumps—what they called “nanomodules”—which move and multiply when contacted by learning signals.
The group also found crucial molecules on the presynaptic side clumped together and mimicked, as if magnetically linked, the movement on the postsynaptic side.
"The key finding is that changes in synaptic strength might be more digital than analog—with same sized units added to change synaptic strength," Dalva said.
The new findings brought up further questions for the team about how neurons make clumps or nanodomains of the same size. Why do they move around when the synapse is stimulated? How do nanomodules act in disorders such as addiction or autism?
“Although it's yet unclear how these nanomodules might behave in disease states, our observations offer a new way to explore those questions," Dalva said.
Matt joined Chicago’s TriMed team in 2018 covering all areas of health imaging after two years reporting on the hospital field. He holds a bachelor’s in English from UIC, and enjoys a good cup of coffee and an interesting documentary.