MOLECULAR MECHANISMS

OF MEMORY FORMATION
EXPLORING THE ROLE OF CALCIUM IONS, LTP,
AND LTD IN THE BRAIN
INTRODUCTION TO
MEMORY
FORMATION

• • Memory formation is a complex

process involving synaptic changes.
• • It encompasses the strengthening or
weakening of synaptic connections to
encode and store information.

• • Molecular mechanisms are at the core

of these processes, enabling learning
and memory retention.
ROLE OF CALCIUM IONS

• They trigger signaling pathways that lead to synaptic plasticity,

including LTP and LTD.
• Calcium ions (Ca2+) act as pivotal messengers in the signaling
pathways that strengthen or weaken synapses, thereby
determining the efficacy of neural circuits critical for encoding
and retrieving memories.
 • In LTP, the sustained depolarization of the postsynaptic neuron removes the Mg2+
ion that blocks the NMDA receptor at resting potential.

LONG-TERM • Once this block is removed, calcium ions (Ca2+) can enter the postsynaptic neuron
through the NMDA receptor when glutamate is bound to it.

POTENTIATIO • The influx of Ca2+ initiates a cascade of intracellular events that ultimately lead
to the strengthening of the synapse.

N (LTP) • This can include the addition of more AMPA receptors to the postsynaptic
membrane or changes in receptor sensitivity, both of which increase the postsynaptic
response to glutamate.
• LTP is a primary cellular mechanism for learning and memory formation.
 • LDP is the process where synaptic activity can lead to a decrease in synaptic
strength.
LONG-TERM • This usually occurs through a different pattern of stimulation than LTP, such as
lower-frequency stimulation that leads to a smaller, more prolonged rise in
DEPRESSION •
postsynaptic Ca2+ levels.
This different pattern of Ca2+ concentration changes activates a different set
(LTD) of signaling pathways that lead to the removal of AMPA receptors from the
postsynaptic membrane or the dephosphorylation of these receptors, making
them less sensitive to glutamate.
• LDP is also critical for learning and memory because it is thought to be involved
in the selective weakening of synapses, which is important for pruning synaptic
connections and forgetting irrelevant information.
THANK YOU!!!