A key structural change that accompanies long-term potentiation is the
A) decreased size of dendritic spines.
B) projection of a spinule into the presynaptic element.
C) formation of two segments of axon.
D) formation of new synaptic contacts.
E) loss of synaptic contacts.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Long-term potentiation (LTP) involves the strengthening of existing synaptic connections, and this process can lead to the formation of new synaptic contacts between the pre- and postsynaptic neurons. Therefore, option D, formation of new synaptic contacts, is the key structural change associated with LTP. Options A, B, and E are not supported by research on LTP, and option C is not relevant to this process.

A Key Structural Change That Accompanies Long-Term Potentiation Is the