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Presenter: Karina Nudnaya

Faculty Sponsor: Reena Randhir

School: Springfield Technical Community College

Research Area: Biology

Session: Poster Session 2, 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM, Auditorium, A18

ABSTRACT

The brain’s ability to rewire itself throughout life by creating new neural connections are called neuroplasticity. The objective of this research is to analyze how everyday learning activities influence adult brain structure and function through the process of neuroplasticity. This study examines neuroplasticity by using peer reviewed articles from ScienceDirect with a focus on findings published within the last five years. The brain continues to reshape itself every time a new thought is formed, or a new action is taken. This remarkable adaptability underpins skill acquisition, and recovery from injury highlighting the brain’s potential for lifelong growth. Studies using neuroimaging techniques such as MRI have shown that in adults who learned to play a new musical instrument neural dendrites became denser. Findings indicate that a cellular level repeated learning strengthened existing synaptic connections and formed new ones. There was remodeling of dendritic spines, increases in neuronal excitability and neurotransmitter efficacy, and enhanced precision of neural firing. Limited adult neurogenesis was also noted that supports learning and memory. Research indicates that enriched environments involving social interaction, language learning and/or lifestyle factors such as aerobic exercise, quality sleep, and stress reduction support neural growth and connectivity. Neuroplasticity opens opportunities for innovative therapies in cognitive enhancement, rehabilitation, and mental health, emphasizing that the adult brain remains a malleable system capable of continual transformation.