Long-lasting synaptic plasticity subjected to the stochastic principle

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We have proposed that 2 novel synaptic plasticity phenomena in the stable cultures of hippocampal slice should serve as suitable models for the analyses of cellular mechanisms underlying memory consolidation. Those are RISE (long-lasting synaptic enhancement after 3 repeated inductions of LTP supported by new synapse formation) and LOSS (long-lasting synaptic weakening after 3 repeated inductions of LTD supported by synapse elimination). In the present study we demonstrated that RISE develops through the following phases: a) the synapses are under constant generation and retraction; b) both the rates of generation and retraction increase transiently after a RISE-producing stimulus, c) the retraction rate returns to the basal level earlier than the generation rate, leading to a net increase in synapse density. However, LOSS develops without the phase of b. The 2 apparently symmetric phenomena are in fact asymmetric in the process of development.