Structural plasticity is network connectivity or structure. The structure of the network decides the flow of electrical activity in each neural system and determines its functional and computational properties. Electrical activation of the neuron stops along with an intracellular increase in calcium that induces morphological modification of the neuron on a slower time scale. Morphological changes in the number of dendritic spines and axonal boutons, as well as elongation, retraction, and branching of axons and dendrites have a direct impact on network connectivity even in the adult brain. Morphological changes, synapses may break, new synapses may form, and axonal branches may be redirected. Sequentially, the rewired network connectivity gives rise to a modified activity dynamic and may contain long-term memory formation as a source. Structural plasticity constitutes the local structure and the global network. When local structural changes occur, long-lasting disturbances in the balance of single-neuron electrical activity can result in alterations in the topology of the global network. Conversely, global topology may impact local repair as some network topologies may maintain local structural plasticity mechanisms better than others to support neuronal homeostasis. Animal studies have found that enriched environments can induce significant changes in the brain. Psychologist Mark Rosenzweig found that the brains of rats raised in enriched environments were significantly different from the brains of rats raised in impoverished environments. It not only includes improved functioning and development related to cognition, learning, memory and resilience, but also includes more neurons, longer dendrites, more connections,… middle of paper… day of testing correlational studies showing the human benefit resulting from enriched and stimulating environments. Research findings have shown that a mentally stimulating and intellectually stimulating environment is associated with improved cognitive functioning, just as physical activity strengthens the heart and muscles, mental activity strengthens the brain. Pumping neurons: maximizing the potential of our brain. From the study, no matter whether you are a mental athlete or a cerebral couch potato, whatever your age, there seems to be a simple recipe for keeping our brains in shape. Along with regular physical activity, engaging in any type of intellectually stimulating activity will keep your dendrites developing. I really believe in this research study. Many experiments and evidence have shown that the results are significant. Without a doubt, enriched environments can alter the human brain.
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