Conceptualizing functional neuroplasticity

J Commun Disord. 2000 Jul-Aug;33(4):345-55; quiz 355-6. doi: 10.1016/s0021-9924(00)00030-7.

Abstract

There are at least four major forms of functional neuroplasticity that can be studied in humans: homologous area adaptation, cross-modal reassignment, map expansion, and compensatory masquerade. Homologous area adaptation is the assumption of a particular cognitive process by a homologous region in the opposite hemisphere. Cross-modal reassignment occurs when structures previously devoted to processing a particular kind of sensory input now accepts input from a new sensory method. Map expansion is the enlargement of a functional brain region on the basis of performance. Compensatory masquerade is a novel allocation of a particular cognitive process to perform a task. By focusing on these four forms of functional neuroplasticity, several fundamental questions about how functional cooperation between brain regions is achieved can be addressed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain / physiopathology*
  • Humans
  • Nerve Net / physiology
  • Neuronal Plasticity / physiology*
  • Recovery of Function