Three factors to characterize plastic potential transitions in the visual system

Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2021 Jul:126:444-446. doi: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.03.035. Epub 2021 Apr 13.

Abstract

A comprehensive understanding of brain-environment interactions is elusive even at the sensory level as neural plasticity waxes and wanes across the lifespan. Temporary and permanent visual deprivations remain pivotal approaches for studying the degree of experience-dependent plasticity of sensory functions. Natural models and experimental manipulations of visual experiences have contributed to uncovering some of the guiding principles that characterize transitions of plastic potentials in the human visual system. The existing literature regarding the neural plasticity associated with visual systems has been extensively discussed by two recent reviews articles (Röder et al., 2020; Castaldi et al., 2020) which provided an overview of different models of study and methods of investigations, gathering insights on both developing and adult brains. Here, we propose a framework of three main factors to characterize how the driving forces shaping visual circuits mutate, both quantitatively and qualitatively, between early development and adulthood.

Keywords: Adult plasticity; Development; Plastic potential transitions; Sensitive periods; Visual deprivation; Visual system.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brain
  • Humans
  • Neuronal Plasticity
  • Plastics*
  • Sensory Deprivation
  • Visual Cortex*

Substances

  • Plastics