Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda cover image

Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda

Carla Shatz and Marcus Raichle: Brainwaves

May 28, 2024
Renowned neuroscientists Carla Shatz and Marcus Raichle discuss neuroplasticity, brain circuits, and Alzheimer's disease. Topics include brain resilience in aging, memory formation, brain activity patterns, and potential treatments for neurodegenerative disorders.
41:23

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Synaptic pruning in brain development allows for new connections and enhances learning abilities.
  • Brain resilience in aging is key for cognitive function, influenced by cardiovascular health and genetic factors.

Deep dives

Understanding Plasticity in Brain Development and Learning

Synapses, crucial connections between nerve cells in the brain, are vital for information relay and form the basis of brain plasticity. Plasticity refers to the changes in synapses and circuits due to experiences, leading to learning and memory formation. Research indicates that during development, synapses are pruned based on relevance and usage, allowing room for new connections. Stabilization of synapses through experience aids in memory formation and building neural circuits.

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