The term neuroplasticity refers to the nervous system’s ability to change over the course of our lives. This process allows neural connections to reorganize in response to internal and external stimuli, injuries, learning, or new experiences.
What is neuroplasticity?
As we have seen previously, when we talk about brain neuroplasticity, we refer to the human brain’s adaptive potential to change its structure and functioning. Understanding what neuroplasticity is is key in the field of neuropsychology, as it explains why certain processes of recovery, learning, or cognitive compensation are possible even in old age or after brain damage. Brain neuroplasticity is not just seen in childhood, it is a constant mechanism, albeit with varying intensity throughout our life cycles.How does neuroplasticity work?
Understanding how neuroplasticity works involves observing how neurons change the way they connect. This process occurs through synaptic potentiation, the creation of new connections (synaptogenesis), or the reorganization of entire circuits. Plasticity can be affected by learning, by environmental changes, by neurodegenerative processes, or therapeutic treatment. A cognitive function relies on complex brain networks. If part of that network is weakened or damaged, other regions can partially take over its function, as occurs with certain types of strokes or brain injuries. This functional reorganization is a direct expression of neuroplasticity.Types of neuroplasticity
Below, we discuss the main types of neuroplasticity.Adaptive neuroplasticity
This allows the brain to reorganize its functions after an injury or structural change. It has a key role to play in neuropsychological rehabilitation.Developmental neuroplasticity
This refers to naturally occurring changes during development. It is particularly active during childhood and adolescence.Functional neuroplasticity
This is the brain’s ability to transfer functions from one region to another. It is central to compensation processes following brain damage.Structural neuroplasticity
This is based on physical changes in the anatomy of the brain: dendrite growth, increased synaptic connections, or even neurogenesis. These types are not mutually exclusive and, in fact, are able to coexist. It is important to distinguish between induced plasticity, which is activated through learning and experience, and compensatory plasticity, which is triggered after an injury or neurodegenerative process. Both are seen in the different types described above.Characteristics of neuroplasticity
Below, let’s take a look at some of the characteristics of neuroplasticity:- It is a dynamic and continuous process.
- It occurs throughout our life span.
- It is influenced by internal factors (genetics, age) and external factors (environment, stimulation).
- It enables recovery after brain damage.
- It is the biological basis of learning and memory.
- It is related to the effectiveness of therapeutic treatments.
How does neuroplasticity affect learning and memory?
Understanding how neuroplasticity affects learning and memory is key to clinical practice. These cognitive processes depend not only on the information acquired, but also on the brain’s ability to adapt to new demands. Synaptic plasticity allows for the reinforcement of circuits involved in the encoding and retrieval of information. In educational contexts, greater neuroplasticity is associated with better results in knowledge acquisition processes, especially at an early age. In a clinical setting, neuropsychological treatment stimulates these mechanisms to improve cognitive performance after damage.Testing neuroplasticity
Neuroplasticity as a process cannot be directly measured, but its manifestations can be assessed through cognitive performance. Tests to evaluate executive functions, such as working memory, cognitive flexibility, or inhibitory control, offer a valid approximation of the behavioral manifestations of plastic changes in the brain. This functional approach is in line with the ideas presented in the book Viaje a tu cerebro (Journey to Your Brain) by Gema Climent (renowned neuropsychologist and founder of Nesplora), which addresses the mechanisms of plasticity and their evaluation, from an applied perspective. Brain neuroplasticity is not only a fascinating phenomenon, but also the basis for a large part of clinical, educational, and technological work in neuropsychology. The virtual reality neuropsychological assessment developed by Nesplora bring us closer to a more accurate, functional, and real-life assessment, allowing us to observe how the brain changes, learns, and adapts.References:
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- Pascual-Leone, A., Amedi, A., Fregni, F., & Merabet, L. B. (2005). The plastic human brain cortex. Annual Review of Neuroscience, 28, 377–401. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.neuro.27.070203.144216
- Kolb, B., & Whishaw, I. Q. (2015). Fundamentals of Human Neuropsychology (7th ed.). Worth Publishers.
- Climent, G. (2024). Viaje a tu cerebro: Factores clave y desafíos de la salud cognitiva en la mediana edad. Ediciones B.
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