Topic: Axonal conduction velocity

Learning relies as much on synaptic weight modifications as it does on the timing of neural signaling. For instance, variability in axonal length and diameter may compromise spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) by dispersing action potential timing, preventing synaptic potentiation and depression. Activity-dependent myelination (ADM), a form of brain plasticity relying on neuron-glia feedback, has been shown to normalize conduction times across different axons through adaptive, neuron-activity-dependent changes in axonal conduction velocity (CV). While historically seen as a mere compensat

Adaptive myelination is the emerging concept of tuning axonal conduction velocity to the activity within specific neural circuits over time. Sound processing circuits process signals with microsecond precision: a time scale that is amenable to adjustment in length and thickness of myelin. Sound-evoked responses during postnatal development increase the activity of auditory axons and enhance myelin thickness, while sensory deprivation prevents such radial growth during development. Deprivation occurring during adulthood reduces myelin thickness. However, it is unclear if sensory stimulation adj