Dendritic spine dynamics in associative memory: A comprehensive review
Hongling Guo1, Tahir Ali1, Jianyu Que2
1State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
Abstract:
Associative learning and memory are fundamental behavioral processes through which organisms adapt to complex environments. Associative memory involves long-lasting changes in synaptic plasticity. Dendritic spines are tiny protrusions from the dendritic shaft of principal neurons, providing the structural basis for synaptic plasticity and brain networks in response to external stimuli. Mounting evidence indicates that dendritic spine dynamics are crucial in different associative memory phases, including acquisition, consolidation, and reconsolidation. Causally bridging dendritic spine dynamics and associative memory is still limited by the suitable tools to measure and control spine dynamics in vivo under behaviorally relevant conditions. Here, we review data providing evidence for the remodeling of dendritic spines during associative memory processing and outline open questions.
Related Concept Videos
Storage
Long-term Potentiation
Hebbian LTP
LTP can occur when...
Neuroplasticity
Long-term Depression
Calcium Ion Concentration Mechanism
If over...
Role of Neurotransmitters in Memory
Glutamate and Synaptic Plasticity
Glutamate, the brain's main excitatory neurotransmitter, is...
Integration of Synaptic Events


