How does LTP occur between neurons? What are the synaptic and dendritic changes that occur during LTP?
What will be an ideal response?
LTP refers to the persistent and physical strengthening of synapses due to simultaneous activation of both the presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons. Its process has been often studied in the hippocampus. For example, in the CA1, the neurotransmitter involved in LTP is glutamate. Glutamate is detected by two types of receptors - AMPA and NMDA. Glutamate first activates the AMPA receptor but not the NMDA receptor due to blockage by an magnesium ion. However, activation of the AMPA receptors causes calcium ions to enter the neuron, leading to partial depolarization. This partial depolarization dislodges the magnesium ion from the NMDA receptor. The resulting large influx of calcium ions activates protein kinases and plasticity-related genes. Several physical changes occur with LTP. These include: 1. significant increases in the number of dendritic spines in the postsynaptic neuron; 2. existing dendritic spines enlarge and split down the middle to form two spines; 3. new AMPA receptors are formed; 4. generation of new neurons in the hippocampus.
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