Ability of the nervous system to change its structure (anatomy) and its operation throughout its life, in response to the diversity of the environment.
Changes at different levels in the nervous system
The brain has a considerable number reservation neurons to modulate either the input information as the complexity of responses.
Neural circuits that require large concentrations of neurons are able to adjust the new entries of information and adjust their synaptic connections (neural links). Also, to store memories, interpret and issue efficient responses to any stimulus or generate new learning.
Molecular events (such as changes in gene expression) to behavior
Neuroplasticity or cortical mapping.
Factors
Age
In our early years we acquire neuro-developmental learning to adapt to certain events and functions (displacement, communication, social interaction).
Synaptic pruning
Neurons that are frequently used develop and strengthen connections more than those rarely used. Neurons that are never used die..
Life experience
The so-called repetitive training and care during the execution of the tasks, they can improve neural connections and make them functional, thus achieving greater learning capacity and speed of memory recall.
Environment and genetics
William James suggested that the brain was not perhaps as unchanging as previously believed: "Matter organic, especially nervous tissue, it seems endowed with an extraordinary degree of plasticity "
Main types
Synaptic plasticity
Whenever you acquire new knowledge (through repeated practice), the communication or transmission synaptic between neurons involved is strengthened.
Neurogenesis
Birth and proliferation of new neurons in the brain.
Functional plasticity
Age-related deficits and decreased synaptic plasticity associated with aging, some elderly reorganize their neurocognitive networks., activate other neural pathways, and more often active regions in both hemispheres (which only occurs in older people).