LTP after Stress: Up or Down?
2007
The Effects of Stress on Memory and Brain Function
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Marian Joëls, Harm J. Krugers
Primary Institution: University of Amsterdam
Hypothesis
Does stress universally impair long-term potentiation (LTP) in the brain?
Conclusion
Stress can impair or facilitate LTP depending on various factors, including the type of stress and timing.
Supporting Evidence
- Stress can impair long-term potentiation (LTP) in the hippocampus.
- Different types of stress can have varying effects on LTP.
- Corticosterone levels influence the ability to induce LTP.
- Chronic stress can make it difficult to induce LTP even with low corticosterone levels.
Takeaway
When animals are stressed, it can make it harder for their brains to remember things, but sometimes it can help them remember better, depending on the situation.
Methodology
The article reviews various studies on the effects of stress and corticosteroids on long-term potentiation in the brain.
Limitations
The link between electrophysiological studies and behavioral observations is still tenuous, and more research is needed.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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