Training-dependent associative learning induced neocortical structural plasticity: a trace eyeblink conditioning analysis.

ABSTRACT: Studies utilizing general learning and memory tasks have suggested the importance of neocortical structural plasticity for memory consolidation. However, these learning tasks typically result in learning of multiple different tasks over several days of training, making it difficult to determine the synaptic time course mediating each learning event. The current study used trace-eyeblink conditioning to determine the time course for neocortical spine modification during learning. With eyeblink conditioning, subjects are presented with a neutral, conditioned stimulus (CS) paired with a salient, unconditioned stimulus (US) to elicit an unconditioned response (UR). With multiple CS-US pairings, subjects learn to associate the CS with the US and exhibit a conditioned response (CR) when presente

SUBMITTER: Chau LS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3997347 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature