Question

An enriched environment promotes growth of axons and dendrites in laboratory rodents. What is known to be one important reason for this effect?

   An enriched environment promotes growth of axons and dendrites in laboratory rodents. What is known to be one important reason for this effect?

Biological Psychology

Biological Psychology

James W. Kalat 13th Edition

Chapter 4, Problem 22

Instant Answer

Solved by Expert Samia Islam

10/09/2020

Step 1

Laboratory rats were placed in two different types of environments - one was an enriched environment with more space and stimuli, and the other was a more confined space with less stimuli. Show more…

Show all steps

lock

Thanks for your feedback!

An enriched environment promotes growth of axons and dendrites in laboratory rodents. What is known to be one important reason for this effect?

Play audio

Feedback

Powered by NumerAI

Samia Islam and 91 other subject Biology educators are ready to help you.

Ask a new question

Labs

Want to see this concept in action?

NEW

Explore this concept interactively to see how it behaves as you change inputs.

View Labs

Key Concepts

Neuroplasticity

Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. It explains how experiences, including exposure to enriched environments, lead to structural changes such as the growth of axons and dendrites, thereby enhancing learning and memory.

Neurotrophic Factors

Neurotrophic factors are proteins that support neuron survival, growth, and differentiation. They are crucial in mediating the effects of enriched environments, as the increased levels of these factors, particularly brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), stimulate the growth and remodeling of neural circuits.

Environmental Enrichment

Environmental enrichment involves enhancing the complexity of an organism's surroundings to increase sensory, cognitive, and motor stimulation. This concept is central in studying how improved environmental conditions can stimulate neural activity and promote changes in brain structure and function.

Recommended Videos

Transcript

Ace is your personal tutor. It breaks down any question with clear steps so you can learn.

Start Using Ace

Continue solving this problem

Create a free account to:

View full step-by-step solution
Ask follow-up questions with Ace AI
Save progress and study later