Brain Plasticity

The brain plays a major role in motor functioning. To better understand this role, I examined the effects of brain plasticity on motor learning. Many parts of the brain, such as the cerebrum, diencephalon, cerebellum, and the brainstem have significant effects on movement. Certain regions of the brain specialize in motor control and motor learning. For example, the primary motor cortex functions in the initiation and coordination of fine motor skills as well as postural coordination. Another example includes the supplemental motor area, which controls sequential movements. Other regions include the premotor cortex and the parietal lobe which both aid in creating movement. By studying the effects of brain plasticity, or the brain’s ability to be shaped or molded, on motor learning, researchers can apply these effects to physical therapy. The plasticity of the brain influences the motor learning ability of the individual. By determining the best method to influence brain plasticity in order to increase motor

It explains how decreasing the number of GABA receptors leads to greater excitability and greater motor learning. The second study examines long-term potentiation and how strengthening certain synapses can affect motor learning. This study shows that occluding LTP-like mechanisms of synapses not heavily involved in motor learning can lead to beneficial effects for motor learning and retention of motor skills. The third study examines not only the effects of an individual’s genetic makeup on brain plasticity, but it also looks at the effect of dopaminergic systems on motor learning. This study explains that a certain genetic makeup will lead to greater brain plasticity and will, in turn, lead to better motor learning. It also explains the effects of the dopamine drug, L-Dopa, on brain plasticity and motor