Sensory Input–Based Adaptation and Brain Architecture

doi:10.1017/CBO9780511499722.007

5 - Sensory Input–Based Adaptation and Brain Architecture

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 17 July 2009

Maurice Ptito and

Sébastien Desgent

Edited by

Paul B. Baltes ,

Patricia A. Reuter-Lorenz and

Frank Rösler

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Maurice Ptito: Affiliation:
Harlan Sanders Professor of Visual Science School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Canada
Sébastien Desgent: Affiliation:
Doctoral Candidate in Neurosciences Department of Physiology and School of Optometry, University of Montreal, Canada
Paul B. Baltes: Affiliation:
Max-Planck-Institut für Bildungsforschung, Berlin
Patricia A. Reuter-Lorenz: Affiliation:
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Frank Rösler: Affiliation:
Philipps-Universität Marburg, Germany

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Summary

ABSTRACT

It is well established that brain development depends on the interaction between the basic components of the nervous system (nature) and the environment (nurture). This interaction, however, relies on a number of rules that could modify not only the organization of neural systems, but also their function. In this chapter, we report results on the plasticity of the visual system in animal and human models, using a variety of methodological approaches. In particular, we describe major findings regarding plasticity that result from modifications of the visual input through lesions in the various stages of the visual pathway (peripheral and central). Possible mechanisms for such neural reorganization are also discussed.

NATURE VERSUS NURTURE: ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ON BRAIN PLASTICITY

One of the oldest issues in modern psychology and biology concerns the nature versus nurture conundrum. Miscellaneous inquiries have been explored in this topic, such as “to what extent can genetic dispositions endow behaviors?” and “to what degree can the environment shape these?” It is well established that brain development depends on the interaction between the basic components of the nervous system (nature) and the stimulating environment (nurture). However, this interaction relies on a number of rules that could modify not only the organization of neural systems, but also their function. As we consider the main principles of evolution, we focus on the characteristics of the brain that are inheritable.

Type: Chapter
Information: Lifespan Development and the Brain
The Perspective of Biocultural Co-Constructivism
, pp. 111 - 133

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/CBO9780511499722.007 [Opens in a new window]

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Print publication year: 2006

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