1. Modification of Neural Circuits with Experience

2. Experience gained… In utero Development Adulthood –By experience, we mean changes in the chemical and external environments –Really hot research area (epigenetics)

3. Changes to Neuron Diversity in Utero Cellular Interaction Model –Neuron diversity reliant on the extent and type of intracellular signaling –These signaling cascades are sensitive to changes in pH, calcium levels, and other molecular factors that could be modified by environmental stressors –This, in turn, can influence where these neurons migrate to in the cortex, for example

5. Imprinting After Birth

6. Even in humans

7. During adolescence

8. The Importance of Time During Development

9. The Importance of Length During the Critical Period

10. Whole System Changes During the Critical Period

11. Complementary Changes in Neuronal Architecture

12. Hebbian Theory Neurons that wire together, fire together

13. Somatosensory Cortex of An Amputee

14. Genetic Changes Due to Environmental Stressors (Epigenetics) affects DNA transcription and translation which can have a HUGE impact on neuron function How? adding of DNA methyl groups, preventing or enabling unwinding of DNA around chromatin, to name a few Hugely popular in psychiatric research

16. Optional Reading From my blog “Dormivigilia” – www.dormivigilia.com www.dormivigilia.com Basic review of epigenetic factors and the effects of early-life stress on subsequent development and social relationships