Which study demonstrated that a more stimulating environment alters brain structure via neuroplasticity?

Which study demonstrated that a more stimulating environment alters brain structure via neuroplasticity?

• A. Rosenzweig and Bennet (1972)
• B. Maguire et al. (2000)
• C. Hubel and Wiesel (1962)
• D. Kandel (2000)

Answer: (A)

Neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to change its structure in response to experience—is at the heart of this idea. In the classic study by Rosenzweig and Bennet, rats were placed in either an enriched environment with many toys, social interaction, and novelty, or an impoverished, isolated setting. After exposure, the brains of the enriched rats showed greater cortical weight, a thicker cortex, and more dendritic branching and synapses than those in the impoverished condition. This provides direct evidence that a more stimulating environment can physically alter brain structure through neural growth and connectivity. Maguire and colleagues also illustrate plasticity in humans, showing that extensive navigation experience can be associated with structural changes in the hippocampus. But the key demonstration of environmental enrichment altering brain structure in a broad and general way is the enriched-versus-impoverished rat study. Hubel and Wiesel looked at plasticity from sensory deprivation during development, while Kandel discusses mechanisms of synaptic change more broadly rather than a direct enrichment manipulation.

Neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to change its structure in response to experience—is at the heart of this idea. In the classic study by Rosenzweig and Bennet, rats were placed in either an enriched environment with many toys, social interaction, and novelty, or an impoverished, isolated setting. After exposure, the brains of the enriched rats showed greater cortical weight, a thicker cortex, and more dendritic branching and synapses than those in the impoverished condition. This provides direct evidence that a more stimulating environment can physically alter brain structure through neural growth and connectivity.

Maguire and colleagues also illustrate plasticity in humans, showing that extensive navigation experience can be associated with structural changes in the hippocampus. But the key demonstration of environmental enrichment altering brain structure in a broad and general way is the enriched-versus-impoverished rat study. Hubel and Wiesel looked at plasticity from sensory deprivation during development, while Kandel discusses mechanisms of synaptic change more broadly rather than a direct enrichment manipulation.