Long-term potentiation

/lɒŋ tɜːɹm ˌpoʊ.tɛn.ʃiˈeɪ.ʃən/ noun

Definition

A lasting increase in synaptic strength following high-frequency stimulation of a synapse, considered a neural basis of learning and memory.

Etymology

From 'long-term' + Latin 'potentia' (power). Lasting strengthening of neural connections. Discovered by Terje Lomo in 1966.

Kelly Says

LTP is the molecular basis of memory — when a synapse fires repeatedly, it gets permanently stronger. That's literally how your brain records new information!

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