Neurophysiology and signaling pathways

Abstract

© 2017, Serbian Medical Society. All rights reserved. An important starting step in understanding the neurobiology of memory lies in identifying locations of physical and chemical changes that follow cognition. As Hebb indicated, and as shown on computer models, memory is a consequence of subtle alterations in synapses. Synaptic response is not invariant, but can be altered by a variety of homo and hetero-synaptic factors, such as modulatory neurotransmitters. This approach helps branching the search for the very physiology of memory-synaptic modification, but rises many questions about modulation of synaptic transmission. The synaptic modification associated with memory capacity can be too small and too widely distributed in the brain, which consequently makes observation and experimental studies more difficult. Explorations of nervous system in invertebrates proved Hebb’s theory that memories can be formed by synaptic alterations, therefore it’s also possible to identify some molecular mechanism that leads to this synaptic plasticity. Although non-synaptic changes may also occur in studies of certain types of memory, there is little doubt that the synapse is an important location of information storage. Hippocampus is confirmed in declarative memory (explicit type, relational type of memory). The focus of this work is on biological perspective that propose memory systems with different functions and distinct anatomical organization. Interdisciplinary approach is of great importance for complete understanding of the very physical basis of memory.