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Memory Processes and Aging in Rodents

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Brain Plasticity, Learning, and Memory

Part of the book series: Advances in Behavioral Biology ((ABBI,volume 28))

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Abstract

It is generally asserted that memory diminishes progressively with age. However, it is not clear to what extent these modifications are related to changes in learning abilities, memory processes, or non-associative influences such as motor, motivational or attentional factors, which can impair performance. Moreover, the neurobiological mechanisms of aging remain unknown, and it is difficult to distinguish between normal aging processes and pathology. Therefore, animal models are useful in order to better understand cognitive deficits in humans. In this chapter, some of the neurobiological correlates of aging are summarized as these could explain some of the cognitive deficits observed in aged subjects. Thereafter, data including some from our own experiments on learning and memory in aged animals are reviewed. Learning deficits, retention deficits and non-associative factors are considered successively. Finally, I will summarize the possible basis of memory deficits in aging.

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© 1985 Plenum Press, New York

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Soumireu-Mourat, B. (1985). Memory Processes and Aging in Rodents. In: Will, B.E., Schmitt, P., Dalrymple-Alford, J.C. (eds) Brain Plasticity, Learning, and Memory. Advances in Behavioral Biology, vol 28. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4684-5003-3_42

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4684-5003-3_42

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Boston, MA

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-4684-5005-7

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-4684-5003-3

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