Aging and classical conditioning: parallel studies in rabbits and humans.
The model system of classical conditioning of the eyelid response in rabbits has led to significant progress in the understanding of the neural circuitry involved in learning and memory. We are now at a point where we can begin to explore how aging in the neural circuitry affects this basic form of associative learning and memory over the life span. Parallels between humans and animals in aging and classical conditioning of the eyelid response are identified. A hypothetical model describing how acquisition occurs in the cerebellum has proved useful in predicting where in the cerebellum age changes might be most likely to affect classical conditioning. The loss of Purkinje cells with age is one of the cerebellar age changes likely to affect classical conditioning in aged mammals. Purkinje cell loss is only one of several age changes in the cerebellum which may impair acquisition and retention of the conditioned eyeblink response. This model system is of demonstrated utility in extending understanding of the neurobiology of learning, memory, and aging in humans as well as animals.
Woodruff-Pak
D S
DS
Department of Psychology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology*; D000818:Animals; D001767:Blinking; D001921:Brain / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology*; D003214:Conditioning, Classical / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning / Q000502:physiology; D008568:Memory / Q000502:physiology; D008875:Middle Aged; D011817:Rabbits