2013 May 22 | R.J. Zatorre1,4, R.D. Fields2,4, and H. Johansen-Berg2,4
The article reviews the neuroimaging findings of structural plasticity in the brain during learning and discusses the cellular and molecular mechanisms that may underlie these observed changes. It highlights the dynamic relationship between brain structure and function, emphasizing how experience can modify brain anatomy. The review covers both gray matter and white matter changes, including neurogenesis, gliogenesis, synaptogenesis, and vascular changes. It also explores the interplay between neuronal and glial cells, and the role of signaling pathways in these processes. The authors advocate for increased collaboration between researchers studying human populations and animal models to better understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind observed neuroimaging effects. They suggest that multi-modal imaging approaches and advanced techniques can provide more specific insights into the cellular changes associated with learning and behavior.The article reviews the neuroimaging findings of structural plasticity in the brain during learning and discusses the cellular and molecular mechanisms that may underlie these observed changes. It highlights the dynamic relationship between brain structure and function, emphasizing how experience can modify brain anatomy. The review covers both gray matter and white matter changes, including neurogenesis, gliogenesis, synaptogenesis, and vascular changes. It also explores the interplay between neuronal and glial cells, and the role of signaling pathways in these processes. The authors advocate for increased collaboration between researchers studying human populations and animal models to better understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind observed neuroimaging effects. They suggest that multi-modal imaging approaches and advanced techniques can provide more specific insights into the cellular changes associated with learning and behavior.