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Updated: Feb 13, 2026

Vibrodissociation of Neurons from Rodent Brain Slices to Study Synaptic Transmission and Image Presynaptic Terminals
Published on: May 25, 2011
Environmental Training and Synaptic Functions in Young and Old Brain: A Presynaptic Perspective
Tommaso Bonfiglio1, Matteo Vergassola1, Guendalina Olivero1
1Department of Pharmacy, DIFAR, University of Genoa, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genoa, Italy.
Cognitive training enhances cognitive reserve in aging by reinforcing synaptic plasticity and counteracting brain impairments. This intervention impacts neurotransmitter release, potentially leading to genuine recovery of neuronal defects in aged mammals.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Neurobiology
Background:
- Aging reduces synaptic complexity and plasticity in the Central Nervous System (CNS).
- Cognitive reserve enhances brain resilience to damage and aging.
- Cognitive training involves cultural, social, and physical stimulations to counteract neurological diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical impact of cognitive training in aged individuals.
- To determine if cognitive training promotes compensatory effects or genuine recovery of neuronal defects.
- To understand the preclinical effects of environmental interventions on aging-associated brain derangements.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of neurotransmitter release (noradrenaline, glutamate, GABA) in response to environmental stimulation.
- Preclinical studies in mammalian models to assess the effects of cognitive training.
- Evaluation of synaptic plasticity and complexity changes associated with aging and cognitive training.
Main Results:
- Environmental stimulation differentially affects neurotransmitter adaptations during aging.
- Cognitive training modulates the presynaptic release of key neurotransmitters.
- Evidence suggests cognitive training impacts neurotransmitter exocytosis, reinforcing cognitive reserve.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive training influences the release of noradrenaline, glutamate, and GABA, with varying effects during aging.
- The impact of cognitive training on neurotransmitter exocytosis may explain the reinforcement of cognitive reserve.
- Preclinical findings offer insights into the cellular mechanisms underlying cognitive training's benefits in aging.
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