What is long-term potentiation (LTP)?

Long-term potentiation (LTP) is a fundamental process that underlies synaptic plasticity, which is the ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken over time in response to increases or decreases in their activity. Specifically, LTP refers to the long-lasting enhancement in signal transmission between two neurons that occurs when they are repeatedly stimulated simultaneously. This strengthening of synaptic connections is believed to be a critical mechanism for learning and memory formation.

During LTP, repeated stimulation can lead to a variety of cellular changes, including an increase in the number of neurotransmitter receptors at the postsynaptic membrane or changes in the structure of the synapse itself. This enhanced synaptic efficacy means that subsequent stimulation will produce a stronger postsynaptic response than before. The concept of LTP is crucial in understanding how experiences can lead to lasting changes in the neural circuitry of the brain, allowing for the storage of memories and the learning of new information.