Question

Why studying synaptic plasticity (LTP and LTD) cannot be equal to studying memory?

Answer 1

Synaptic Plasticity ie. (LTP and LTD) are one of the important determinants of memory however, they cannot be termed as the only determinants of memory simple because there are a lot of aspects which need to be studied in detail to understand how the synaptic plasticity functions. The various factors in the internal or external environment of an individual which can cause the synaptic plasticity to accelerate or slow down.

For eg: Scientists from Austria published a paper in a magazine called Science as to how a fundamental nerve pathway associated with memory, learning and pain can be activated and regulated by non-neuronal cells called glia. Whereas, it was believed that these glial cells had no contribution to synaptic transfession and only provided support. Also, the synpatic palsiticity could be the impacted by Stress, Emotions rising high or certain other factors which need to be studies in entireity to understand it's impacton synaptic plasticity and in turn memory.

However,more rsearch has to be done to find out about the complexity of the brain functioning and the extent of contribution of synaptic plasticity in the stydies related to memory.