ABSTRACT
The transmission properties of neurons and the functional connectivity between neurons determine the fidelity of sensory processing, computational capability, and the reliability of motor output. The ability to maintain discharge activity could result from changes in the coupling of synaptic inputs to neuronal discharge, as a reduction in the threshold of neuronal discharge due to synaptic activation has been reported. A number of researchers have suggested that changes in synaptic function provide a principal physiological correlate of brain aging and memory decline. In general, aging is associated with a shift in synaptic plasticity favoring decreased synaptic transmission and a reduced ability to enhance synaptic transmission through longterm depression (LTP). The idea that induction of LTP is subdued as a result of a reduction in N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor activation is supported by research showing that induction deficits can be overcome by strong postsynaptic depolarization.
