Neuroplasticity, a central concept in neuroscience, refers to the brain’s ability to strengthen existing neural networks, form new connections between neurons, and generate new neurons (through neurogenesis) in response to stimuli and experience. These brain changes occur when learning new information or a new skill, engaging in activities and experiences that are novel or challenging, or recovering from a brain injury such as concussion or stroke.
It was previously thought that neuronal plasticity occurred only during childhood and adolescence and that the adult brain was not capable of significant change. However, neuroscientists now recognize that the capacity for neuroplasticity is not age-related — the human brain has the ability to change throughout the lifespan. However, while a developing brain can undergo adaptive structural changes with even passive exposure, older adults need to intentionally engage with stimuli and experiences (such as reading, socializing or learning new skills) for plasticity to occur.
Subtopics
The Science of Neuroplasticity
Neural plasticity is an experience-dependent process of the strengthening or weakening of synaptic connections across various areas of the brain, including the hippocampus and motor cortex. At the cellular level, the reorganization and rewiring of neural connections is possible due to morphological (structural) changes in the brain cells themselves. These changes in brain structure include the growth of new dendritic spines, the remodeling of axonal pathways and the modification of synaptic receptors, which enable more efficient neural communication.Brain plasticity is integral to brain development in children, as a child’s nervous system encounters a vast amount of input by simply engaging with the environment. This high capacity for structural plasticity helps children learn a new language or skill more easily and passively compared to adults and is also why early interventions for addressing trauma, Mental Health concerns and learning deficits can be so impactful for young children.
| Timestamp | Clip | Episode |
|---|---|---|
| 00:08:04 Developmental vs. Adult Neuroplasticity | Developmental vs. Adult Neuroplasticity | Science-Based Mental Training & Visualization for Improved Learning |
| 00:48:48 Neurogenesis (New Neuron Production) in Adults | Neurogenesis (New Neuron Production) in Adults | Dr. Wendy Suzuki: Boost Attention & Memory with Science-Based Tools |
| 01:22:20 Tool: Cardiovascular Exercise & Neurogenesis | Tool: Cardiovascular Exercise & Neurogenesis | Understand & Improve Memory Using Science-Based Tools |
How to Learn More Effectively
Learning new information or new skills requires synaptic plasticity in order to retain and later recall that which has been recently learned. Understanding and utilizing the mechanisms of neuroplasticity can result in more effective and efficient learning. First and foremost, following protocols that support brain health and good cognitive function set the foundation for neuroplasticity to occur. Physical exercise — particularly cardiovascular exercise — improves blood flow to the brain and boosts levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports the growth and resilience of neurons. Sleep is another critical factor: the actual strengthening and weakening of the connections between neurons made during a bout of learning occurs predominantly during sleep. Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and deep sleep are particularly important for consolidating new information, memory formation and reorganizing neural pathways. During a bout of learning, spaced repetition and active recall enhance memory by regularly challenging the brain to retrieve information, strengthening neural pathways in the process. Additionally, minimizing distractions in the environment and dedicating time to focused, deep work is required for neuroplasticity in adults.
| Timestamp | Clip | Episode |
|---|---|---|
| 00:08:22 Learning & Neuroplasticity | Learning & Neuroplasticity | Optimal Protocols for Studying & Learning |
| 01:02:45 An Optimal Learning Protocol | An Optimal Learning Protocol | Using Cortisol & Adrenaline to Boost Our Energy & Immune System |
| 00:28:29 Tools: Study Habits of Successful Students | Tools: Study Habits of Successful Students | Optimal Protocols for Studying & Learning |
Psychedelics: Science and Therapies
Psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and ketamine have garnered scientific attention for their profound effects on neuroplasticity. Under the influence of psychedelics, brain regions that typically don’t communicate much with each other become more integrated, which can persist even after the effects of the psychedelic have worn off. Psychedelics also stimulate the production of neurotrophic factors like BDNF, which supports the growth of new synapses, enhancing plasticity.The increased plasticity from psychedelics facilitates emotional processing, generating new perspectives on past experiences and the breaking of maladaptive thought patterns. Research suggests that psychedelics create a critical period of heightened adaptability, allowing individuals to get “unstuck” from otherwise rigid modes of thinking and integrate therapeutic insights more effectively. Growing research suggests that psychedelics can be a promising clinical tool for treating depression, PTSD and addiction. Disclaimer: Psychedelic research is an emerging field, and findings are still evolving. In many parts of the world, psychedelics remain illegal, and their use carries potential risks. Any consideration of psychedelic usage should be approached with caution, within legal parameters, and only under the guidance and supervision of a qualified physician or licensed professional.
| Timestamp | Clip | Episode |
|---|---|---|
| 00:23:30 MDMA vs Psychedelics vs Ketamine | MDMA vs Psychedelics vs Ketamine | The Science of MDMA & Its Therapeutic Uses: Benefits & Risks |
| 00:34:29 NMDA Receptor & Neuroplasticity | NMDA Receptor & Neuroplasticity | Ketamine: Benefits and Risks for Depression, PTSD & Neuroplasticity |
| 01:36:11 Neuroplasticity, Structural Brain Changes & Psilocybin | Neuroplasticity, Structural Brain Changes & Psilocybin | How Psilocybin Can Rewire Our Brain, Its Therapeutic Benefits & Its Risks |
Guest Experts
- Dr. David Yeager 🔗 https://liberalarts.utexas.edu/psychology/faculty/yeagerds
- Dr. Mark D’Esposito 🔗 https://psychology.berkeley.edu/people/mark-t-desposito
- Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris 🔗 https://profiles.ucsf.edu/robin.carhart-harris
- Dr. Matthew MacDougall 🔗 https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-doctor/dr-matthew-macdougall
- Dr. Nolan Williams 🔗 https://profiles.stanford.edu/nolan-williams
- Dr. Matthew Johnson 🔗 https://hub.jhu.edu/experts/profiles/matthew-johnson/
- Dr. Karl Deisseroth 🔗 https://web.stanford.edu/group/dlab/
- Dr. Charan Ranganath 🔗 https://charanranganath.com
- Dr. Cal Newport 🔗 https://calnewport.com
Resources
Articles & Research Papers
- Neurogenesis in the adult human hippocampus
- Brief, daily meditation enhances attention, memory, mood, and emotional regulation in non-experienced meditators
- The use of functional and effective connectivity techniques to understand the developing brain
- Adverse Life Experiences and Brain Function: A Meta-Analysis of Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings
- MDMA-assisted therapy for severe PTSD: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3 study
- Effects of Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy on Major Depressive Disorder
- Therapeutic use of psilocybin: Practical considerations for dosing and administration
- Psychedelics and Neuroplasticity: A Systematic Review Unraveling the Biological Underpinnings of Psychedelics
- The neural basis of psychedelic action
- The effects of psilocybin and MDMA on between-network resting state functional connectivity in healthy volunteers
- Structure-based discovery of nonhallucinogenic psychedelic analogs
- Antidepressant effects of ketamine in depressed patients
Books & Additional Resources
- Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World
- Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS)
- Dr. Matthew Johnson: Psychedelic Medicine