Modification of Neural Circuits with Experience

Experience gained… In utero Development Adulthood –By experience, we mean changes in the chemical and external environments –Really hot research area (epigenetics)

Changes to Neuron Diversity in Utero Cellular Interaction Model –Neuron diversity reliant on the extent and type of intracellular signaling and genetics –These signaling cascades are sensitive to changes in physiological factors and environmental stressors (anxiety, diet deficiency) –This, in turn, can influence where these neurons migrate to in the cortex, for example

Imprinting After Birth

Even in humans

During adolescence

The Importance of Time During Development

The Importance of Length During the Critical Period

Complementary Changes in Neuronal Architecture

Hebbian Theory Neurons that wire together, fire together

Somatosensory Cortex of An Amputee

Whole System Changes During the Critical Period

Epigenetics: Environment + Genetics Diet, anxiety, aggression affects DNA transcription and translation Hugely popular in psychiatric research

Optional Reading From my blog “Dormivigilia” – Basic review of epigenetic factors and the effects of early-life stress on subsequent development and social relationships