Learning in the damaged brain/spinal cord: Neuroplasticity

Abstract

Neuroplasticity refers to the ability of the central nervous system (CNS) to undergo persistent or lasting modifications to the function or structure of its elements. Neuroplasticity is a CNS mechanism that enables successful learning. Likely, it is also the mechanism by which recovery after CNS lesioning is possible. The chapter gives an overview of the phenomena that constitute plasticity and the cellular events leading to them. Evidence for neural plasticity in different regions of the brain and in the spinal cord is summarized in the contexts of learning, recovery, and rehabilitation therapy.