The strategies of brain plasticity research

Abstract

In the investigation of brain plasticity two stages can be usually distinguished. In the training stage some plastic changes are produced, while other, developing under normal conditions, may be reduced. In the testing stage those effects are analysed. Four methods are used in the training stage: developing conditioned reflex, sensory deprivation, abnormal sensory stimulation, and causing a local damage to the animal's brain. Accordingly four research strategies are distinguished in the brain plasticity research. The features of these strategies, their effectiveness, and possible further development are discussed.