Weizmann Institute
Theoretical and experimental studies of learning and memory have focused on the regulation of the strength of synapses connecting neurons into functional networks. In the present study, we examined plasticity of synaptic transmission between individual neurons and found a remarkable simultaneous, pattern-dependent increase and decrease in synaptic potentials induced after both neurons were synchronously active. A new potential cellular mechanism for learning and memory will be presented which does not involve a net change in synapse strength.